Lung Cancer Symptoms - Knowledge and Often Sought Inquiries Regarding Lung Cancer

For answers to your questions and facts about lung cancer, read on for details about causes of the disease, how it's treated and how it can be prevented.

Is there more than one type of lung cancer?

There are two types of lung cancer - non-small cell and small cell lung cancer. The two types are distinguishable because of how the cancer cells expand, grow and spread throughout the body.

There are three types of non-small cell lung cancer (the most common form of lung cancer). They are adenocarcinoma, squamus cell carcinoma, and large-cell carcinoma. Though rarer, small cell lung cancer occurs in approximately a quarter of all people diagnosed with lung cancer.

Can I prevent lung cancer?

To prevent lung cancer, the most ideal tactic is to quit smoking or avoid second-hand smoke. The earlier in life you quit, the better. The second prevention tactic is to avoid carcinogens, particularly those that are air-borne, in the work place.

What are the major causes of lung cancer?

The short answer - smoking. Tobacco smoke is full of carcinogens, making it the major cause in almost all cases of lung cancer. While exposure to air-borne carcinogens like radon or asbestos can also lead to lung cancer, tobacco smoke is, by far, the primary cause.

How is lung cancer detected?

Most cases of lung cancer caught during the early stages of the disease are found accidentally in chest X-rays. Unfortunately, symptoms of the disease typically aren't exhibited until the later stages.

Before a final diagnosis is made, most doctors must perform a biopsy. A biopsy is where a small tissue sample is taken from the lung and tested for the presence of cancer cells.

Does lung cancer have any symptoms?

Most lung cancer symptoms don't appear until after the disease has reached the later stages. That said, the symptoms include constant coughing or wheezing, loss of appetite, chest pains, upper abdomen pains, bronchitis or pneumonia, blood being coughed up, general fatigue, a persistent hoarse voice and a dry, sore throat.

Can lung cancer be treated and how?

Lung cancer can be treated, but the treatments will depend on how far advanced the disease has progressed, the patient's strength and the type of lung cancer. Lung cancer is typically treated with one of - or a combination of - chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer, but it's very rare. The disease is caused by exposure to asbestos. Essentially, the asbestos fibers attack the lung lining, causing the formation of tumors.

Whose more at risk - men or women?

Women who smoke are twice as likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than men who are smokers.

I'm older and a smoker, will quitting really help me?

Yes, it can! Every year a person goes without smoking, their chances of contracting lung cancer are significantly reduced. Out of all the facts about lung cancer, this is the most critical. Remember, whether you're 18 or 80, quitting can help you prevent lung cancer.

For helpful information on various cancers, please visit a popular site providing symptom and treatment insights, such as a men's breast cancer, childhood osteosarcoma, and many more!