Lung cancer is a serious disease and the main cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. There are two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). When the disease is advanced, signs like a persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, and weight loss may show up.
Smoking, being around asbestos or radon, having family members with lung cancer, or having past lung diseases can increase the risk of getting lung cancer. Finding and treating lung cancer involves physical examination, X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, tissue biopsy, and examination of mucus and saliva. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, and clinical trials.
It is important to quit smoking, stay away from secondhand smoke, eat healthy, and be cautious around asbestos and radon. People at high risk, including heavy smokers, ages 55 to 80, who have smoked a pack a day for 30 years and are currently smoking, or have stopped smoking within the past 15 years, may need CT screening.
Article provided by CCHRC.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Always seek advice from your physicians or other qualified health provider.