Lung cancer is increasing among women smokers

Lung cancer, which is more common in men, is rapidly spreading among women due to smoking in our country, as it is in the whole world. Lung cancer, which is the most life-threatening type of cancer presents by persistent cough, lung infection, shortness of breath, hoarseness, chest pain and blood in sputum. Tobacco and its products should be avoided in order to prevent lung cancer. By virtue of developing medical and technological developments and early diagnosis and treatment opportunities, the treatment comfort and quality of life of its patients are increased. Professor from Memorial Şişli and Bahçelievler Hospital Chest Diseases Department. Dr. Adnan Sayar gave information about the causes and symptoms of lung cancer and modern treatment methods specific to the patient.

Lung tumors can multiply irregularly and limitlessly

Lung cancer tumors, which have two types as non-small cell and small cell lung cancer, are formed by the irregularly and limitlessly proliferation of the own cells of the lung tissue. These cells, which enlarge and become a mass over time, can spread to the surrounding tissues and organs, and can spread to other organs through the blood circulation.

One out of every 7 people who smoke 2 packs of cigarettes a day passes away

Lung cancer, which is increasing rapidly among men and women, is one of the most feared cancer types today. The most important cause of lung cancer is tobacco and its products. Studies show that the incidence of lung cancer and the loss of life due to this disease are decreasing in men whose smoking has started to decrease, it is seen that the opposite is experienced in women with increased smoking. In addition to smokers, the risk of lung cancer increases 1.5 times more in passive smokers, that is, in people who have to be in smoking environments for a long time, compared to non-smokers. There is also a parallelism with the dose taken between smoking and lung cancer. One out of every 7 people who smoke 2 packs or more a day dies from lung cancer.

Tobacco and genetic factors increase the risk of lung cancer

Some of the lung cancers seen in non-smokers are caused by tobacco exposure during childhood and adolescence. The most important causes of lung cancer other than smoking are environmental and genetic factors such as asbestos exposure, air pollution, radon gas, arsenic, nickel, and uranium. Smokers, those with a family history of cancer, those exposed to environmental factors, and shipyard and mine workers are at higher risk of lung cancer.

Lung cancer may be progressing insidiously

The most important and most common symptoms of lung cancer are fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. However, some of the lung cancers can progress insidiously without any symptoms until the advanced stage due to their location. Cancer can only occur when the patient consults a doctor for another disease. The symptoms of lung cancer is listed as follows:

• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Hemoptysis
• Cough with blood
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Swelling in the neck
• Shoulder or arm pain

Life expectancy increases with early diagnosis and patient-specific treatment

Early diagnosis in the treatment of lung cancer increases both the comfort of treatment and the life span of the patient.  Today, thanks to medical and technological developments, patient-specific treatment options can be provided to the patient. Treatment methods may vary according to the type of lung cancer, its involvement and stage. Lung cancers are grouped under 2 main groups. These are expressed as small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).  While the most effective treatment in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is chemoradiotherapy; surgery is the most effective treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In lung cancer factors such as age, socioeconomic status, concomitant diseases, and familial support also affect the patient's return to social life. Patients successfully complete this multi-factorial process can continue their lives in a healthy way by receiving their treatment without leaving their social life.

Prepared by the Medical Editorial Board. Our health library contents have been prepared for informational purposes only and with the scientific content on the registration date. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis or treatment about your health, please consult your doctor or health institution.