Early-stage lung cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms. At a more advanced stage, lung cancer symptoms may include a persistent cough, chest pains, shortness of breath, blood in the sputum, recurrent chest infections and unexplained weight loss.
Lung cancer risk is influenced by a combination of modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Smoking is the most important modifiable risk factor for lung cancer, as smokers are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers. The importance of quitting smoking cannot be overemphasised. In non-smokers, second-hand smoke and environmental exposures at work, such as to asbestos and diesel are also associated with an increased risk for lung cancer. In addition, having a first or second degree relative with lung cancer increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
Lung cancer is usually diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, followed by a biopsy of an area of abnormal growth that is detected on the scans. The tissue samples extracted during the biopsy are sent to the laboratory to be examined to confirm the diagnosis of lung cancer.
Lung cancer can be cured in the early stages when the cancer is localised and can be completely removed by surgery. Patients may be given additional treatment before or after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer spread, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy.
As vaping is relatively new, its long-term impact on the risk of developing lung cancer is not yet well-established. Nonetheless, vaping devices release harmful chemicals which may damage lung tissue and lead to the development of lung cancer over time.
Yes, you can. Lung cancer among never smokers is common in Asia. Associated modifiable risk factors include exposure to second-hand smoke, excessive consumption of meat, as well as air pollution – particularly tiny PM 2.5 particles. Family history has also been shown to be associated with the development of lung cancer, especially amongst never smoking women of Chinese ethnicity. The growth of lung cancer in never smokers is commonly driven by a single genetic alteration in majority of these individuals. Ongoing local population research will enable us to better understand the connection between lung cancer and the Asian, never-smoker patient profile.
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