Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs, which may develop from the lung itself or spread from other body organs. Cancer that begins in the lungs is called primary lung cancer, while cancer that has spread from infected sites is called secondary lung cancer. Primary lung cancer has several subtypes grouped according to the size of the cancerous cells:

  • Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer affecting the pleura, or the outer covering of the lung. Its cycle and symptoms are different from other lung cancers, so it’s usually considered a distinct type of cancer.
  • Small cell lung cancer (oat cell lung cancer). This type of cancer is characterized by small cells filled with nuclei. It accounts for 20% of lung cancers and is almost always caused by smoking.
  • Non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer can develop in the squamous cells lining the airways (squamous cell carcinoma) or the mucus-producing cells (adenocarcinoma). Another type called large cell carcinoma produces relatively large cells, and tends to spread faster.

Lung Cancer Statistics In The USA

Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the US in 2007, based on projected cases by the National Cancer Institute. The NCI expects 213,380 cases and160,390 deaths from lung cancer this year. In 2006, 174,470 cases were reported, of which 162,460 were fatal.

Causes And Diagnosis Of Lung Cancer

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer worldwide. Cigarette smoke contains as many as 19 carcinogens, including nicotine, which is known to weaken the body’s immune response to malignant growth. Asbestos, a fire-resistant mineral, is the only known cause of mesothelioma. It has been banned from all commercial products because one can inhale lethal amounts from carpets, blinds, or furniture. Radiation, viral infections, and genetic predisposition are also considered major risk factors.

A chest X-ray is usually the first procedure in diagnosing lung cancer. Tumors will show up as visible lumps, although doctors will look out for more subtle signs like collapsed lungs or alveoli or fluids in the pleural cavity. This can be followed by computerized tomography (CT) scans or biopsies to confirm the diagnosis, and positron emission tomography (PET) to determine the extent and possible treatment.

Symptoms Of Lung Cancer

Early symptoms of lung cancer include chest or abdominal pain, shortness or breath, chronic coughing or wheezing, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing, coughing up blood. Individual symptoms are not indicative of lung cancer, but a combination of two or more may require medical attention. Advanced lung cancer may be accompanied by weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and breathing difficulty.

Treatment Of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer treatment depends on the type and extent of the tumor. Small cell lung cancer spreads in the early stages, so it is usually treated with chemotherapy rather than surgery. If the cancer has not spread, the tumor may be removed by local surgery. However, if the lung is severely damaged, the doctor may remove part or all of the lung, provided the remaining lung is strong enough to assume respiratory functions. Surgery is usually followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy to remove remaining cancer cells and prevent a relapse. Visit my alternative cancer treatment guide reviews to find out more about natural cancer remedies to treat lung cancer and more.

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