Lung cancer is a disease of uncontrolled growth of damaged cells in the tissues of the lungs. This growth can be shared with other agencies, adjacent or non-adjacent tissues beyond the lungs. Lung cancer is one of the most cancer-related deaths in both men and women, is responsible for 1.3 million deaths each year in the world. In 2008, according to estimates from 1961. 840 Americans expected to die from lung cancer, accounting for about one third of all deaths from cancer.
More women have died each year from lung cancer in breast cancer since 1987. After several years of increase, a female mortality from lung cancer is now in a plateau and become the second most common cause of death after breast cancer. From 1990-1994, the mortality rate among men fell by 1.3% per year. Both indicators are good signs of a reduction of smoking in the last 30 years in both men and women.
Just a little more than 215,000 new cases of lung cancer, is an estimate of 15% of all cancers diagnosed in 2008. In the treatment, lung cancer is classified as small cell or non-small cell. These cells are treated differently. The treatment varies depending on the type of cells and stages of cancer. Methods of treatment can include one or a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and biological treatment. Since the cancer has usually spread by the time it is discovered, radiation and chemotherapy are often used and, if necessary, in combination with surgery.
Common lung cancer symptoms may include shortness of breath, persistent cough or coughing blood, chest pain, voice changes, weight loss and recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis. Cigarette smoking is undoubtedly the biggest risk factor for lung cancer. The risk increases with the amount and duration of cigarette smoking. There are many cancer causing chemicals in tobacco smoke. Smoking cigars and pipes also cause lung cancer, but not at high risk such as cigarette smoking. Passive smoking, occupational or environmental exposure to radon, asbestos and certain metals such as chromium, cadmium and arsenic, are risk factors for lung cancer. Genetics play an important role in development of the disease, especially in those with disease at a young age.
Early detection has been shown to reduce mortality. Chest and bronchial passages Fiber optics is not as effective in reducing deaths from lung cancer. Between 2000 and 2003, 1 year’s relative survival has increased to 41% compared to 35% during 1975 - 1979 periods. But only 15% of all patients who survive more than 5 years than in all stages of cancer combined.
Live well, eat healthy, exercise, stay optimistic, do not ever smoke or stop smoking to prevent cancer in the first place.
Labels: Cancer Treatments, Lung cancer