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What is Lung Cancer?

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most hazardous and painful cancer that nobody wants to have or even can’t think about others suffering from it under any condition. It is a disease in which some unwanted or abnormal cells produces in bulk and form a tumor that gradually disturbs the functions of the lung and creates a disbalance in the lifestyle. 

How Common is This Cancer?

As per the report of American Cancer Society, Lung Cancer is the second most dangerous cancer in the United States. For men, prostate Cancer is prevalent, while breast cancer is more prevalent in women.

It is the leading death cause worldwide.

lung cancer1

  • New Lung Cancer Cases this year- About 226,650 (Men- 110,680 and Women- 115,970)
  • Death from Lung Cancer- 124,730 (Men- 64,190 and Women- 60,540)

It is the leading cause of death in the US alone, accounts 1 in 5 of all deaths. Every year more people are dying of lung cancer than any other cancers like Breast, Prostate, Colon.

On a positive side, the death number of people from lung cancer is decreases partly. Because of health awareness, healthy lifestyle, more advanced cancer detection and cancer treatment, quality cancer medicines. 

The Reasons That Causes Cancer

There are a number of reasons that cause lung cancer. Smoking is one of the main reasons that lead to lung cancer. Apart from this, other reasons also play a crucial role in nurturing the root of it. Some of the reasons are mentioned below:- 

  • Secondhand smoking 
  • Getting exposure to radon
  • Air pollution 
  • Asbestos 
  • Getting in contact with harsh chemicals 
  • Chronic lung disease 
  • Family history related to lung cancer

Types of Lung Cancer

It is generally divided into 2 main types of diseases, based on its appearance and stages.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of cancer; nearly 85% of people are suffering from it. It grows and spread more slowly than other type of cancers. Some of its sub types are given below:

  • Adenocarcinoma: Common type of lung cancer, especially in non-smokers
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: associated with smokers
  • Large Cell Carcinoma: Spread quickly, difficult to treat

Small Cell Lung Cancer

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SLCC) is mainly linked with smoking. It spreads and grows more quickly. Some Other Sub types of Lung Cancer

  • Carcinoid Tumors
  • Mesothelioma – Cancer of the pleura
  • Salivary gland type lung carcinomas

How to Figure Out The Lung Cancer in a Person?

We never want our loved ones to fall into the trap of hazardous disease and suffer. So if you are facing or have noticed the lung cancer symptoms mentioned below, then it is time to visit the medical professional or have a proper medical check-up, because you know that prevention is better than a cure. Look at the symptoms mentioned below:- 

  • Chest pain 
  • Fatigue
  • Persistent cough 
  • Weight loss 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Bone pain 
  • Hoarseness 
  • Getting blood and mucus in the cough
  • Wheezing 

Stage 1 Lung Cancer Symptoms

People who have early stages of cancer can suffer from some of the usual Stage 1 lung cancer symptoms. These are quite hazardous and bring drastic changes in the life of the person and convert him/her into a serious patient. You can also detect the condition by checking whether the person is suffering from below given symptoms or not. 

  • Presence of blood or mucus in the cough
  • Hoarseness 
  • Weight loss
  • Difficulty in breathing 
  • Chest pain 
  • Fatigue 

Stage 4 Lung Cancer Symptoms

Having a last-stage lung cancer is no less than a shock and the end of happiness. Some of the important symptoms of Stage 4 lung cancer are mentioned below which should not be left unnoticed. 

  • Chest pain 
  • Fatigue 
  • Difficulty in breathing 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Persistent cough 
  • Weight loss
  • Wheezing 
  • Hemoptsis 

How To Keep Ourselves Safe From Lung Cancer?

As we all know that lung cancer has no cure if it reaches the last stage. But if you don’t want to face any such kind of circumstances where you have to deal with such as hazardous diseases, and then be careful about your health. Yes, when you are attentive towards your life and start following the right steps, you can easily reduce the chances of lung cancer. Some of the steps are mentioned below, which you can look at and adapt to your life. 

  • Quit smoking if you are habituated to it
  • Eat a healthy diet and exercise daily
  • Don’t consume secondhand smoke
  • Have regular health checkups 
  • Pay attention to radon 

Conclusion

As you have learned about lung cancer, its causes, and symptoms so you must become aware of whether you are suffering from it or not. It will help to protect yourself or any loved one who is going through the same. Along with this, do keep yourself healthy and fit so that you can avoid the chances of getting affected by such a hazardous disease. This will allow you to live happily and stress-free. 

People May Also Ask!

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a kind of disease in which the production of abnormal cells increases in bulk which resulting in a tumor and disturbing the function of the lungs. 

What do Mobocertinib and Amivantamab stand for, and what is their use?

These are a kind of medicine that is used to treat NSCLC, which stands for non-small cell lung cancer, along with EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations.

What are the Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

There are a number of symptoms of lung cancer, such as fatigue, weight loss, cough with mucus and blood, dry cough, chest pain, and many more.

How many Stages are there in Lung Cancer?

There are a total of 4 stages of lung cancer.

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What are the Most Painful Cancer?

Painful Cancer

Cancer is a tough journey for anyone. However, there are certain types of cancer that cause intense pain. Pain can vary depending on its location, its stage, and how it affects the body. If one understands the cancer type, location, and cause in the early stages, then it can help patients, caregivers, and doctors find better ways to manage and reduce suffering. Let’s learn about the most painful cancer types in this blog.

Types of Pain

Cancer pain varies from person to person. One person can feel it intensely painful while the other person may not feel it too much bother. Note that cancer causes pain when it affects your bones, nerves, or soft tissues. Here are the different types of pain of cancer.

Bone Pain

When cancer is spread to the bones, it often causes a dull or throwing sensation. It occurs because the cancer damages or weekends, the bone structure. Consequently, bones become sensitive and prone to discomfort.

Nerve Pain

Nerve pain occurs owing to a tumor pressing on the nerves or spinal code. It can also occur due to the side impacts of cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Nerve pain feels like a burning, shooting, or tingling sensation.

Soft Tissue Pain

Cancer in soft tissue, such as organs, muscles, or fat leads to sharp, cramping, and throating pain. Additionally, soft tissue pain occurs because tumors press on or invade these structures. It causes irritation and discomfort.

Phantom Pain

This is more like a sensation, which you feel on a certain part of the body that has been surgically removed to treat cancer. For example, cancer patients who experience a mastectomy can feel pain where their breasts used to be. Although the affected area is no longer physically present, the nerves can still send pain signals to the brain.

Most Painful Cancer Types

These are the most painful cancer types in the medical world.

Bone Cancer

This is the most painful cancer type, which occurs in the bones. Bone cancer is of mainly two types, which include primary bone cancer and secondary bone cancer. Primary bone cancer begins in the bone itself but is rare in ends. It accounts for only about 0.2% of all cancers. on the other hand, secondary bone cancer happens due to the cancer spreading from bones to other areas of the body. It can damage the breast, lung, or prostate. Pain is the most noticeable symptom of bone cancer. Note that cancer cells affect the bones by disrupting their normal repair and growth processes. As a result, bones become fragile and more likely to break. Moreover, tumors growing in the bones also press on nearby nerves, which increases discomfort. At first, the pain feels dull, but it comes and goes, especially at night. However, this pain becomes constant and severe over time. Besides, weak bones are also more likely to fracture, which adds to the pain and complications.

Pain Management: Treatment options include Opioids, Radiation therapy, and Bisphosphonates

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer develops in the pancreas. As you already know, the pancreas is an important organ for digesting food and controlling blood sugar levels. This cancer often goes unnoticed in the early stages because it does not cause symptoms. Unfortunately, this means doctors usually detect it later when it already has advanced. About 80% of pancreatic cancer are diagnosed late. Pancreatic symptoms include abdominal pain, back pain, jaundice, and explained, weight loss. Needless to mention, the pain can become severe as the tumor presses on nearby nerves, the spine, or organs like the liver.

Pain Management: Treatment options include Radiation therapy, Medications and nerve blocks.

Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer starts in the mouth, throat, voice works, nose, sinuses, or celery glands. The pain will occur depending on the specific location of the tumor. You should know that the head and neck have many sensitive nerves packed into a small space. Therefore, even a small tumor creates significant pain. This cancer can interfere with daily activities like eating, soiling, breathing, and more. Besides, some treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy may irritate these tissues and nerves, which further contribute to the pain.

Pain Management: Treatment options include Radiation therapy, Painkillers, Chemotherapy, and some surgical procedures.

Some additional type of cancer Includes

Liver Cancer

Pain Management: Liver cancer treatment options include Pain medications, Palliative radiation, or Nerve blocks.

Esophageal Cancer

Pain Management: Treatment options include Pain medications, Radiation therapy and Stent placement

Ovarian Cancer

Pain Management: Treatment options include Pain medications, chemotherapy and Surgery in some cases.

Brain Cancer

Pain Management: Treatment options include Pain medications, Steroids and treatment for intracranial pressure.

Lung Cancer

Pain Management: Treatment options include Opioids, Radiation, and Nerve blocks in some cases.

Gallbladder Cancer

Pain Management: Treatment options include Medication, Radiation, and Surgery for alleviate blockages

Stomach Cancer

Pain Management: Treatment options include Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, and Palliative care.

Why Do Some Cancers Hurt More Than Others?

Cancer pain often depends on several factors like:

  • Tumor Location: Cancers near nerves, organs, or bones tend to cause more pain.
  • Size and Spread: Larger tumors or cancers that spread to sensitive areas can be more painful.
  • Inflammation: Some cancers trigger inflammation, causing swelling and discomfort.
  • Treatment Side Effects: Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can cause pain too.

Summing Up

Cancer is one of the fatal and most painful diseases in the world. Fortunately, the healthcare industry has advanced a lot which has brought several treatment options for cancer patients. However, it is very important to be alert and address cancer symptoms before it is too late. We have mentioned only the top most painful cancer types but there are more to add.

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Importance of Chemotherapy

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. It is one of the most common treatments for various types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and leukaemia, among others. It can be used as a primary treatment, often in combination with other therapies such as surgery or radiation therapy, or it may be used to shrink tumours before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) or to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence after surgery (adjuvant therapy).

How Chemotherapy Works?

Chemotherapy drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which include cancer cells. However, because chemotherapy drugs can also affect healthy cells that divide rapidly, such as those in the bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and hair follicles, they can cause side effects.

The specific chemotherapy drugs and the treatment regimen may vary as per the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and treatment goals. These drugs may be administered orally (in the form of pills or capsules) or intravenously (through a vein) and are typically given in cycles, with periods of treatment followed by rest periods to allow the body to recover.

Benefit of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy offers several benefits in the treatment of cancer, depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some of the key benefits of chemotherapy include:

Killing Cancer Cells

The primary goal of this therapy is to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. Chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which are characteristic of cancer cells. By interfering with the cancer cell’s ability to divide and multiply, it helps to shrink tumours and reduce the cancer burden.

Treatment of Systemic Disease

It is particularly effective in treating cancers that have spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body. Because chemotherapy drugs circulate throughout the bloodstream, they can reach cancer cells in different organs and tissues, making them a valuable treatment option for systemic disease.

Shrinking Tumors

In cases where surgery or radiation therapy is planned, chemotherapy may be used to shrink tumours before the primary treatment. This approach is known as neoadjuvant therapy. It can make the tumour more manageable and increase the likelihood of successful surgical removal or radiation therapy.

Preventing Recurrence

Chemotherapy is administered after surgery or radiation therapy, known as adjuvant therapy. It can help reduce the cancer risk recurrence by targeting any remaining cancer cells that may not have been removed or destroyed by the primary treatment.

Palliative Care

In advanced or metastatic cancer, it may be used to alleviate symptoms, control disease progression, and improve quality of life. This approach, known as palliative chemotherapy, aims to maintain the patient’s overall well-being. It also works to relieve pain, discomfort, and other symptoms associated with cancer.

Combination Therapy

This therapy is often used in combination with other cancer treatments to maximize treatment efficacy and improve outcomes. Surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are used with chemotherapy to provide effective results. This multimodal approach can target cancer cells through different mechanisms, making it more difficult for the cancer to develop resistance to treatment.

Conclusion

The goal of chemotherapy is to effectively target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing side effects. It also maintains the patient’s quality of life. While it offers significant benefits in cancer treatment, it can also cause side effects due to its effects on healthy cells. However, supportive care and advancements in treatment strategies have helped to minimize side effects and improve the tolerability of chemotherapy. These factors help to make it an essential component of cancer care for many patients.

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Self Awareness of Early Cancer Detection

How Early Cancer Detection is Useful?

Early cancer detection is essential for boosting survival rates and optimizing treatment results. Millions of people worldwide are impacted by the complex disease known as cancer. Let’s talk about the significance of cancer awareness and offer useful advice on how to spot early warning signs and symptoms.

Common Symptoms and Warning Signs

Although there are many different types of cancer, it is important to be familiar with some common warning signs.

Breast Cancer

Breast lumps or thickening, nipple discharge or inversion, changes to the breast’s size or form, and skin alterations (dimpling, redness, or puckering)

Lung Cancer

Respiratory infections that reoccur frequently, persistent cough, chest pain, breathe shortness, coughing up blood, and hoarseness

Colorectal Cancer

Constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, cramping or pain in the stomach, and unexplained weight loss are all signs of bowel changes.

Prostate Cancer

Frequent urination, poor urine flow, and pelvic pain or discomfort

Melanoma

Sores that don’t heal, irritation or pain, unusual skin growth, or changes in patches

Cervical Cancer

Increased vaginal discharge, post-coital bleed, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and pelvic pain or discomfort

Ovarian Cancer

Changes in bowel movements, pelvic pain, regular urination, feeling stuffed rapidly, and bloating in the abdomen or swelling

Pancreatic Cancer

Abdominal discomfort or soreness, unexplainable weight loss, jaundice (a condition that causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow), appetite loss, and digestive issues

Liver Cancer

Abdominal discomfort or swelling, unexpected weight loss, biliary symptoms, exhaustion, appetite loss, nausea, or vomiting

Stomach Cancer

Abdominal ache or discomfort, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, bloating, undiagnosed weight loss, or trouble swallowing

Bladder Cancer

Urinary urgency or incontinence, frequent urination, discomfort or burning during urinating, pelvic pain

It is always preferable to visit a medical professional for examination and the proper tests because these symptoms could potentially be brought on by other ailments.

Regular Examinations and Tests for Cancer Detection

Screenings are good early cancer detection methods since they can spot cancer even before symptoms appear.

  • Cancer Type- Cervical Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Pap Smear Test
  • Targeted Population- Women who are 21 or older (other recommendations may apply)

 

  • Cancer Type– Breast Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Mammogram
  • Targeted Population- Women over the age of 40 (recommendations may differ)

 

  • Cancer Type- Colorectal Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Colonoscopy
  • Targeted Population- Adults 45 to 75 (younger for those at higher risk)

 

  • Cancer Type- Prostate Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) Test
  • Targeted Population- Men over the age of 50 (high-risk persons sooner)

 

  • Cancer Type- Lung Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- LDCT (Low-Dose Computed Tomography) Scan
  • Targeted Population- Adults 55 to 80 years old who have smoked heavily in the past

 

  • Cancer Type- Skin Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Biopsy and Examination of Skin
  • Targeted Population- People with high-risk conditions or worrisome skin lesions

 

  • Cancer Type- Ovarian Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Transvaginal Ultrasound Test
  • Targeted Population- Women with a history of disease or other risk factors

 

  • Cancer Type- Pancreatic Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Un specific Routine Test
  • Targeted Population- High-risk people might have genetic testing.

 

  • Cancer Type- Liver Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Un specific Routine Test
  • Targeted Population- Those who are at high risk might have imaging tests.

 

  • Cancer Type- Stomach Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Un specific Routine Test
  • Targeted Population- People who are at high risk might get an endoscopy.

 

  • Cancer Type- Bladder Cancer
  • Diagnostic Test- Urine Cytology, Cystoscopy
  • Targeted Population- Those who exhibit symptoms or who have high-risk characteristics

These examinations can find unnatural modifications to the body. It’s important to regularly participate in advised screenings, especially for those who have a history of cancer in their families or other high-risk factors.

Developing Self-Examinations for Cancer Detection

Self-examinations are crucial for cancer detection in addition to screenings.

The following main considerations underline the significance of self-examination in the early identification of cancer:

Self-Examination of the Breast:

Self-examination of the breasts assists people in acquire accustomed to the natural appearance and sensation of their breasts.

Individuals can find any new lumps, variations in size or shape, skin anomalies, discharge from the nipple, or other unexpected breast changes by completing monthly breast self-exams.

Self-examination can aid in early identification of breast cancer and prompt medical intervention can improve treatment outcomes and boost survival rates.

Self-Examination of the Skin:

Regular skin self-examinations aid in the early detection of skin malignancies like melanoma. People can look for any new moles, changes in existing moles, and other skin abnormalities by thoroughly inspecting their entire body from head to toe.

Self-Examination of the Testicles:

Examining one’s testicles for lumps, swells, or other anomalies is known as testicular self-examination.

People can detect any changes in the testicles’ size, shape, or consistency that could indicate testicular cancer by undergoing monthly testicular self-examinations.

Self-examination can help identify testicular cancer early and prompt medical intervention, perhaps increasing treatment results and preserving fertility.

Oral Self-Examination:

When performing an oral self-examination, you should look inside of your mouth, gums, tongue, and throat for any abnormal growths, sores, or modifications to color or texture.

Self-examinations of the mouth on a regular basis can help identify early indications of oral cancer, enabling people to seek oral or medical care for a more thorough examination.

We promote early detection and preventive healthcare by educating people on how to undertake this easy-to-do yet very efficient self-examinations.

Conclusion

We can help people implement proactive measures in controlling their health by educating them about the warning signals, underlining the value of regular checkups, and arming them with information regarding self-examinations. Make your health a priority by taking the first step. We strongly advise you to speak with your healthcare professional or a specialist if you have any questions or need direction.

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