Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2023: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment And All You Need To Know

In order to tackle this severe disease, it is imperative that awareness, prevention, early detection, and effective therapies be implemented.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2023

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Lung cancer is a widespread problem worldwide, accounting for around millions of new cases that are diagnosed annually. It accounts for a number of fatalities in both men and women, making it a substantial contributor to cancer-related mortality. In order to tackle this severe disease, it is imperative that awareness, prevention, early detection, and effective therapies be implemented.

 

But before that, let's know what is lung cancer.

What Is Lung Cancer And Its Types?

Dr. Tushar Patil, who is a Senior Consultant-Medical Oncologist, at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune said, "Uncontrollably multiplying aberrant cells in the lungs lead to the very serious medical disease known as lung cancer. One's health is seriously threatened by this sneaky illness, which, if neglected, can have grave repercussions, including fatalities."

"Frequent signs of lung cancer include chronic symptoms such as a chronic cough, continuous chest discomfort, and significant dyspnoea. These symptoms shouldn't be ignored as they might indicate the existence of this harmful illness. It is crucial that you get medical attention right once if you or someone you know has these symptoms," he added.

Lung cancer presents itself in several distinct forms, each with its own characteristics and implications for treatment. Understanding these types can be crucial in guiding the course of action. The two primary categories of lung cancer are:

• Small Cell Lung Cancer: This category is further subdivided into "Small Cell Carcinoma" and "Combined Small Cell Carcinoma." Small Cell Carcinoma is often colloquially referred to as "Oat Cell Cancer" due to the small size and appearance of the cancer cells.
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: This broad classification encompasses three major subtypes: "Adenocarcinoma," "Squamous Cell Carcinoma," and "Large Cell Carcinoma." Each of these subtypes has distinct characteristics and may necessitate different treatment approaches.

Risk Factors Of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a complex disease influenced by a variety of risk factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and make informed decisions about their health. Dr.Sharat Chandra Reddy, who is a Radiation Oncologist, CARE Cancer Institute, at CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad said that the primary risk factors for lung cancer include:

• Smoking: Smoking tobacco is the leading cause of lung cancer. Cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoke contains carcinogens that damage lung cells and DNA, leading to cancer development. The risk is directly related to the duration and intensity of smoking.

• Secondhand Smoke: Exposure to secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoking, can increase the risk of lung cancer, particularly in nonsmokers. Breathing in the smoke exhaled by others or coming from burning tobacco products can be harmful.

• Occupational Exposures: Exposure to carcinogens in the workplace, such as asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, and some organic chemicals, can increase the risk of lung cancer, particularly in industries like construction, mining, and manufacturing.

• Air Pollution: Prolonged exposure to high levels of outdoor air pollution, especially in areas with poor air quality, has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

• Radon Gas: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes through the ground. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of radon is a significant risk factor for lung cancer.

• Family History: Individuals with a family history of lung cancer may have a slightly higher risk, as there may be a genetic predisposition to the disease. However, the role of genetics in lung cancer is not as well-defined as it is in some other cancers.

• Previous Lung Diseases: Certain lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis, can increase the risk of lung cancer.

• Personal History of Lung Cancer: Survivors of lung cancer are at a higher risk of developing a second primary lung cancer.

• Personal and Lifestyle Factors: Other factors that can influence lung cancer risk include a history of previous cancer, a weakened immune system, and dietary factors. A diet high in fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect, while diets high in processed and red meats may increase risk.

• Gender and Age: Lung cancer is more common in older individuals, and historically, it has been more common in men than women. However, the gap in lung cancer rates between men and women has been narrowing.

• Genetics and Molecular Factors: Recent research has identified specific genetic mutations and molecular factors that can increase the risk of lung cancer in certain individuals.

Role Of Genetics In The Development Of Lung Cancer:

Dr. Soumya Das, who is a Consultant Pulmonologist, at Manipal Hospital Salt Lake Kolkata said, "The lung cancer genetic and genomic database is currently shedding light on the racial disparities in lung cancer genetics across different human cultures. Genetics can have an important influence in the development of lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most frequent kind. While the majority of lung cancers are caused by tobacco smoking and environmental factors such as radon gas, asbestos, and air pollution, some hereditary factors can also raise the risk."

"Mutations in specific genes, such as EGFR, ALK, and ROS1, are associated with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and can be targeted with precision therapies. A family history of lung cancer can also increase a person's risk owing to shared genetic and environmental variables. It is critical to recognise that genetics is only one piece of the picture, and that lifestyle decisions such as smoking have a significant influence on lung cancer risk," he added.

Diagnosis Of Lung Cancer:

Lung cancer is a significant health problem, often caused by long-term exposure to tobacco smoke, both through active smoking and secondhand smoke. However, it is essential to acknowledge that non-smokers can also develop lung cancer due to environmental factors such as air pollution and occupational hazards. The increasing prevalence of lung cancer highlights the urgent need for effective diagnostic measures.

Dr. Vinay Bhatia who is the Head Molecular Biology & Genomics at Oncquest Laboratories Ltd. said, "The diagnosis of lung cancer is a critical and complex process that requires thorough evaluation and accurate testing. With the rising reports of lung cancer globally, healthcare organisations are focused on improving diagnostic capabilities to ensure early detection and timely treatment."

"Diagnosing lung cancer involves a comprehensive approach that includes a medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Advanced imaging techniques like chest X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are crucial in identifying abnormalities and tumours within the lungs. These tests provide detailed insights into the size, location, and potential spread of the cancer, aiding in treatment planning," he added.

Treatment Of Lung Cancer:

Dr. R K Choudhary who is the Director & Head - Medical Oncology, Haemato Oncology & BMT, at Metro Hospital Noida said, "Lung cancer treatment has taken a paradigm shift with the availability of cancer precision medicine. It uses genomic and other molecular informations to tailor the cancer treatment for each individual. Largely lung cancer treatment is based on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient."

 

He also said that there are primarily three main treatment modalities for lung cancer and went on to name the following:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor is an option for early-stage lung cancer. This may involve removing a portion of the lung (wedge resection), an entire lobe (lobectomy), or the entire lung (pneumonectomy).
• Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be used as the primary treatment for some cases or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
• Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth. Both may be used at various stages of lung cancer and sometimes in combination.

Genomics Revolutionises Lung Cancer Treatment

Dr Kunjal Patel, who is a Molecular Oncopathologist, at Neuberg Centre for Genomic Centre said, "Lung cancer is a formidable adversary, responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other cancer. Traditional treatment approaches, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, have long been the primary weapons in the battle against this disease. However, in recent years, the field of genomics has emerged as a game-changer in the quest to improve lung cancer treatment. By deciphering the genetic code of lung cancer, scientists and healthcare professionals have gained invaluable insights into the disease's mechanisms, allowing for more precise and personalized treatment strategies."

Genetic Biomarkers In The Treament Of Lung Cancer: 

 

Dr (Brig) Anil Kumar Dhar, HOD, Medical Oncologist, American Oncology Institute (AOI), Gurugram said, "Over the last few years, the genetic biomarkers have played important role in treatment of lung cancer . It has helped us in defining treatment protocol both in early stage and advanced stage lung cancer. These genetic markers are subjected to Next Generation Sequencing and other assays and genetic mutations are identified. The determination of genetic mutations help clinicians to identify novel targeted therapies and immunotherapy."

 

"The identification of specific targeted therapy and immunotherapy have improved the survival and cure rates in lung cancer. Researchers and clinicians have used this opportunity to use this technology and advancement for improving the response rate and down staging the advanced stage disease in to lower stage of disease and convert them in to treatable cancer condition so that there is improvement in survival," he added.

Prevention Of Lung Cancer:

Dr. Sreenivass B J, who is a Medical Oncologist at HCG Cancer Hospital, Bangalore said, "In India, where tobacco consumption is a significant risk factor for lung cancer, tobacco control measures are paramount. Education and awareness campaigns about the hazards of smoking and benefits of quitting are essential. Additionally, promoting clean air and reducing exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution can help prevent lung cancer.

"Lung cancer in non-smoker is also a concern. Radon exposure and occupational carcinogens are contributors. Occupational safety measures and better ventilation in homes and workplaces can make a difference," he added.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]