An Overview On Lung Cancer

Most of us are aware that smoking greatly increases your risk of developing serious illnesses. One of the most common diseases associated with tobacco use is lung cancer. Exposure to tobacco smoke, either firsthand or secondhand, can greatly heighten your risk level. While there are a variety of treatments available, one of the most effective ways to lower your chances of developing lung cancer is to quit smoking.

Are There Different Types of Lung Cancer?

According to LUNGevity Foundation, there are two different types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell comprises the vast majority. Squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinomas and adenocarcinoma are three different types of tumors that are associated with non-small cell lung cancer.
Small cell lung cancer grows quicker and moves throughout the body faster than non-small cell lung cancer. This type is almost exclusively caused by exceptionally heavy smoking habits.

What Are Some of the Signs or Symptoms?

According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of lung cancer typically do not appear in the disease's early stages. Some of the warning signs that can point to lung cancer include the following:

  • Coughing Up Blood
  • Persistent Coughing
  • Weight Loss
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Head or Chest Pain

What Are The Treatment Options?

Depending on what stage the cancer is in, there are several different types of treatments, which can be combined. The Mayo Clinic cites the following types of treatments:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Drug Therapy
  • Radiation Therapy
  • Surgery

How Can I Reduce The Risk Of Developing This Type of Lung Disease?

To help lower your risk, it's a good idea to give up smoking for good. This will not only decrease your chances for developing other serious, chronic diseases, but it will also benefit the people around you. Regular exercise can also help with your overall wellness.

James Caddell (23 Posts)

James Caddell is the Editor of dctff.org and author of over 20 books. He is on the board of 3 educational non-profits and enjoys the arts.