Lung Cancer: What are the early signs?
How common is lung cancer?
Lung cancer is the most common malignancy and the one that causes the most deaths. New diagnoses in the world are 2.2 million annually, while in our country approximately 10,000 patients with lung cancer are diagnosed each year.
What are the symptoms of early lung cancer?
Unfortunately, with the exception of a few cases, early lung cancer is not accompanied by symptoms, as a result of which most diagnoses are made in more advanced stages, when a lesion is either quite large or has spread with metastases. The symptoms of the initial stages, if present, include a cough that did not previously exist, wheezing, recurrent respiratory infections and, more rarely, shortness of breath. It should be noted that while these symptoms are non-specific, meaning they are usually associated with other more common benign diseases of the respiratory system, they should not be ignored and should be evaluated appropriately.
What other signs and symptoms may be associated with lung cancer?
In more advanced stages, lung cancer may present with chest pain, hoarseness, or significant shortness of breath, while symptoms such as weight loss, anorexia, weakness, and bone pain often indicate metastatic disease. Again, these symptoms are non-specific and may also be present in other benign or malignant diseases.
How can lung cancer be prevented?
The most effective way to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking. A balanced diet and regular exercise strengthen the immune system and can act as a protective factor.
How can lung cancer be diagnosed early?
Early diagnosis, that is, diagnosis at an early stage, is extremely important, as it increases the chances of cure. Unfortunately, due to the absence of symptoms in the early stages of the disease, most cases are diagnosed incidentally at these stages. Screening with low-dose CT scans in individuals at increased risk has the potential to diagnose incipient lung damage and, by extension, allow for radical treatment.
Is lung cancer curable?
The earlier the diagnosis is made, the greater the chances of cure. Modern therapeutic options make even advanced stages treatable, while for early stages, surgical excision using minimally invasive techniques is now the gold standard.
