DR. WALKER

About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrollable division of damaged cells in the lungs. It is the third most common cancerous disease in the United States of America.

What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer

• Persistent cough
• Coughing accompanied by blood
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Headache
• Unwanted weight

What are the main types of lung cancer?

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 80-85% of all cases. There are three subtypes of NSCLC:

- Adenocarcinoma: This type of lung cancer is typically found in the outer part of the lungs and is often seen in non-smokers and women.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of lung cancer is commonly found in the central part of the lungs and is often associated with smoking.
- Large cell carcinoma: This type of lung cancer is less common and can occur in any part of the lung.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This type of lung cancer is less common, accounting for approximately 10-15% of all cases. It is often associated with smoking and grows quickly, often spreading to other parts of the body.
In addition to these two main types, there are also rare types of lung cancer, such as carcinoid tumors and pleomorphic carcinoma. It is important to note that the type of lung cancer can affect the treatment options and prognosis.

What Are Some Causes of Lung Cancer?

• Smoking
• People who have been exposed to secondhand smoke

What are the risk factors for lung cancer?

Generally there are 2 categories: modifiable and non-modifiable.
• Non-modifiable risk factors:
• Age: The risk of lung cancer increases with age. Most people diagnosed with lung cancer are over the age of 65.
• Family history: If a close family member has had lung cancer, the risk of developing the disease is higher.
• Genetics: Certain genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
• Modifiable risk factors:

• Smoking: Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 85% of all cases. The risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked per day and the number of years of smoking.
• Exposure to secondhand smoke: Non-smokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke have an increased risk of developing lung cancer.
• Exposure to radon: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can be found in homes and buildings. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer.
• Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens: Exposure to certain chemicals and substances, such as asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust, can increase the risk of lung cancer.
• Air pollution: Exposure to air pollution, particularly in urban areas, has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer.

Complications of Lung Cancer

● Shortness of breath
● Coughing up blood
● Pain in the bones and around the chest
● Fluid in chest
● Metastasis

Can Lung Cancer Be Prevented?

There are several lifestyle modifications that can help reduce the risk of lung cancer:

Quitting smoking: Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, so quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce the risk. Even if you have smoked for many years, quitting can still provide health benefits.
Avoiding secondhand smoke: Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase the risk of lung cancer, so avoiding secondhand smoke is important.
Reducing exposure to carcinogens: Exposure to certain chemicals and substances, such as asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust, can increase the risk of lung cancer. Reducing exposure to these substances can help lower the risk.
Improving air quality: Exposure to air pollution, particularly in urban areas, has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. Improving indoor and outdoor air quality can help reduce exposure to pollutants.
Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine: A healthy diet and regular exercise can help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of many diseases, including lung cancer.
Regular health check-ups: Regular health check-ups can help detect lung cancer early, when it is most treatable.

How is lung cancer diagnosed?

• Imaging tests
• Sputum cytology
• Biopsy

Are there supplements that may help reduce my risk for lung cancer?

Studies suggest that certain supplements may help reduce the risk of lung cancer:

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for immune function and may help protect against lung cancer. A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that people with higher vitamin D levels had a lower risk of lung cancer.
Selenium: Selenium is a mineral that is important for immune function. Some studies suggest that selenium supplements may help reduce the risk of lung cancer, particularly in people who smoke.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that may help protect against lung cancer. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that vitamin E supplements reduced the risk of lung cancer in male smokers.
Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants and other compounds that may help protect against cancer. Some studies suggest that drinking green tea or taking green tea supplements may help reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Turmeric: Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies suggest that curcumin supplements may help protect against lung cancer.

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