spudgene

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for Thais and the global population. It is a genuine silent threat, as it grows and spreads surreptitiously without disclosing any warning sign. The patient becomes aware of the symptoms only when the lung cancer has progressed to the late, extensive stage. Even though people are knowledgeable about cancer risk factors, very few can detect them at the early stages.

What causes lung cancer?

Lung cancer is caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of mutated cells in the lung, forming a mass or nodule that affects or interrupts the normal function of the lung. It typically begins as a tiny spot, often in the airways or air sacs of the lung, and quickly spreads to adjacent organs.

How many types of lung cancer?

Lung cancers are classifiable into two major types based on their characteristics.
Small cell lung cancer(SCLC)
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a type of lung cancer that grows and spreads faster than non-small cell lung cancer (NCLC). It is common in long-term heavy smokers, people chronically exposed to second-hand smoke, soot, or dust containing PM2.5.
Non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC)
Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of cancer (85-90% of lung cancer patients). Typically, non-small-cell lung cancer is a type of cancer that grows and spreads slower than small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). Non-small-cell lung cancer can be entirely cured by medical treatment if detected and appropriately treated early.
Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the predominant type, 85-90% of lung cancers. It has a slower growth and spread than small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and can be cured by medical treatment only if detected and appropriately treated early.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

Lung cancer at an early stage does not have any signs or symptoms. However, symptoms such as cough or fatigue can be a daily occurrence. As a result, many patients delay initial screening until the cancer has progressed to an advanced stage.

Signs of symptoms lung cancer include:
Chronic cough
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
Wheezing, Hoarseness
Headache
Fatigue, Tiredness
Chest or upper chest pain
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Shoulder pain
Bone pain
Swelling in the face, neck, and arms