Lung Cancer Awareness: “Breathe Life – Detect Lung Cancer Early”

November is observed worldwide as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. During this month, efforts are made to raise awareness about lung cancer —its causes, prevention, and modern treatment options.

With advances in cancer treatment technology, early detection can make lung cancer completely curable.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer occurs when the cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably and form a tumor.

It is generally of two main types:

1. Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – seen in about 85% of cases
2. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – grows and spreads more rapidly

Major Causes or Risk Factors:

1. Smoking or passive (second hand) smoking
2. Air pollution, industrial fumes, asbestos, or diesel exhaust
3. Exposure to radon gas or other environmental chemicals
4. Genetic or hereditary predisposition
5. Chronic lung diseases (e.g., COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, etc.)

Did You Know?

In India, around 30–40% of lung cancer patients have never smoked.
Many of them have EGFR or ALK gene mutations, which can be treated effectively with targeted therapies.

Warning Signs — When to Seek Help:

1. Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
2. Coughing up blood
3. Chest pain or shortness of breath
4. Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
5. Recurrent chest infections

Do not ignore these symptoms — get evaluated early:

1.  Importance of Early Detection:

When lung cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the chances of complete cure are significantly higher.

Low-Dose CT Scan (LDCT) is highly effective for high-risk individuals, especially:

1. People above 50 years of age.
2. Those with a history of smoking or long-term smoke exposure.

Regular screening can help detect the disease before symptoms appear.

Modern Treatment Approaches:

Today, lung cancer treatment is multidisciplinary and highly advanced:

1. Surgery – for early-stage tumors
2. Radiation Therapy (IMRT, IGRT, SBRT) – precise and organ-preserving
3. Chemotherapy – for locally advanced or metastatic disease
4. Targeted Therapy – for EGFR, ALK, ROS1, MET mutations
5. Immunotherapy (e.g., Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab) – activates the immune system to fight cancer
6. Palliative Care – ensures comfort, emotional support, and quality of life

Prevention is the Best Protection:

1. Quit smoking completely
2. Avoid passive smoking and air pollution
3. Eat nutritious, antioxidant-rich foods
4. Exercise regularly and get routine health check-ups

Every breath is precious — awareness and timely treatment can save lives.

Key Message:

“Lung cancer is no longer a death sentence —
With timely detection and proper treatment, patients can lead a healthy, normal life.”

Let’s Spread Awareness This November:

Join hands to promote awareness, screening, and compassion.
If you or someone you know has a chronic cough, chest pain, or breathing difficulty — consult an oncologist immediately.