Many families have lost loved ones to “lung cancer” because it is a disease that often shows no symptoms until it is quite advanced. Therefore, we should all observe the symptoms in ourselves and our family members to see if there is anything abnormal. Early detection of “lung cancer” increases the chances of successful treatment.
Causes of “Lung Cancer”
“Lung cancer” arises from abnormal epithelial cells in the lungs that grow rapidly and uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors that can invade and spread to other organs. Lung cancer is divided into 2 types:
- Small Cell Lung Cancer
This type accounts for about 10-15%. The cells grow and spread rapidly, leading to quick deterioration and death of the patient. - Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
This type accounts for about 85-90%. It spreads more slowly than small cell lung cancer, and if detected early, it can be cured by surgery.
Stages of Lung Cancer
The stage of lung cancer is very important for treatment, and it also depends on the type of cancer.
Stages of Small Cell Lung Cancer (2 stages)
- Stage 1: Limited Stage Cancer cells are found in one lung and only one side of the lymph nodes.
- Stage 2: Extensive Stage Cancer cells have spread outside the chest area of that lung or to other organs in the body.
Stages of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (4 stages)
- Stage 1: A tumor is found in the lung. In this early stage, patients usually show no symptoms.
- Stage 2: Cancer has spread to lymph nodes at the lung hilum. Stages 1 and 2 can be treated by surgery to remove the tumor.
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread to other lobes of the lung or to lymph nodes in the middle of the chest or beyond the chest on that side.
- Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as lymph nodes in the neck, liver, bones, adrenal glands, and brain.
Risk Factors for “Lung Cancer”
Lifestyle behaviors and the surrounding environment all contribute to the development of “lung cancer.”
- Smoking
is the main factor causing lung cancer as well as other types of cancer because cigarettes contain carcinogens. Smokers have a 10 times higher risk of lung cancer than non-smokers. - Secondhand smoke
Even if you do not smoke, exposure to smoke from people around you increases the risk of lung cancer. - Chemicals in industrial factories
Workers in industrial factories may be unknowingly exposed to carcinogens such as chromium, asbestos, radon, and nickel. - Toxic pollution
Studies have found that PM2.5 dust increases the risk of lung cancer by 1 to 1.4 times, which is quite significant compared to smoking. - Genetics
Although lung cancer is not directly inherited, having a family history of lung cancer at a young age increases the risk for other family members.
Symptoms When the Disease Progresses
In the early stages of lung cancer, patients often show few symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
- Chronic cough with blood-tinged sputum
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
- Shortness of breath with wheezing
- Chest pain when breathing
- Hoarseness or change in voice
- Frequent lung infections
- Easy fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
If you or someone close to you has these symptoms, do not ignore them. You should see a doctor for a thorough examination to get an accurate diagnosis and receive treatment as soon as possible.
If lung cancer is suspected, doctors will perform diagnostic tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan, bronchoscopy, biopsy, low-dose CT chest screening, and mediastinoscopy as needed.
We should all take care of our health and have regular check-ups so that you and your loved ones can enjoy more happy times together… Although “lung cancer” cannot be transmitted to family members, if detected late or untreated promptly, it can easily break the hearts of family members…
Dr. Supachart Chompoonuch
Oncology Specialist
Cancer Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
