Lung Cancer

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the lungs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow and multiply uncontrollably, potentially affecting normal lung function. These cancer cells can also spread from where they first develop to other parts of the body, including the other lung, lymph nodes, bones and liver. There are two main types of lung cancer: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC).

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancers. It develops from epithelial cells, which line the surfaces of organs and tissues. The main types of NSCLC include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): SCLC accounts for approximately 15% of lung cancers and is strongly associated with cigarette smoking. It tends to grow and spread rapidly to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes.

Signs and Symptoms

Lung cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer progresses, possible symptoms may include:

  • A persistent or worsening cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Blood in the sputum
  • Persistent chest pain, which may occur together with a chronic cough
  • Recurring chest infections and fever
  • Unexplained weight loss

Causes and Risk Factors

Several behavioural and environmental factors are known to increase the risk of developing lung cancer, including:

Cigarette, pipe or cigar smoking: Smoking is the most significant risk factor for lung cancer and is estimated to account for 80%–90% of lung cancer-related deaths. Smokers have a 15–30 times higher risk of developing lung cancer compared with non-smokers, with the risk increasing with the duration and amount of tobacco smoked.

Exposure to industrial hazards: Contact with certain harmful chemicals and minerals can increase the risk of lung cancer. These include asbestos, coal gas, chromates, nickel, arsenic, vinyl chloride, mustard gas, radon, and by-products associated with uranium mining and processing.

Second-hand smoke: Non-smokers who are regularly exposed to tobacco smoke may have a 20%–30% higher risk of developing lung cancer.

Cancer Prevention

As smoking is one of the main causes of lung cancer, avoiding smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of developing the disease. Ways to reduce your risk include:

If you have never smoked, do not start smoking

If you currently smoke, quit smoking

Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke from others

Consider undergoing a low-dose CT scan for screening

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