12 Nov 2024        11:40:45 am

Science

Lung Cancer

Tags : Lung Cancer

Topic: Diseases

Why in the news?

• Banning tobacco consumption among young people could prevent deaths among them and those who come after them on a large scale. A new study published in Lancet Public Health recently gave an idea of the magnitude of the preventable deaths.
• An estimated 1,186,500 (40.2 per cent) of 2,951,400 lung cancer deaths in people born between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2010 could be prevented globally if tobacco smoking was eliminated, the researchers calculated.
• Elimination of tobacco smoking in the evaluated birth cohort could prevent a greater number and proportion of lung cancer deaths in male individuals than in female individuals. This is because of higher prevalence and earlier onset of smoking in male individuals.

Source: Down To Earth

About Lung Cancer:

• It is a form of cancer that initiates from the lungs and can spread to other body parts. 
• It is classified into two main types:
  • Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): It is the most common type of lung cancer. It accounts for about 85% of lung cancer cases. It includes subtypes like adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): It is less common but more aggressive. It makes up about 15% of lung cancer cases and is known for its rapid growth and spread.
• It is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for approximately 18.4% of all cancer deaths.
• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 2.1 million new cases of lung cancer in 2020.
• Lung cancer causes more deaths each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancers combined, with over 1.8 million deaths annually.
• The 5-year survival rate for lung cancer is about 19%, highlighting the need for early detection and effective treatment.
• Many risk factors contribute to the development of lung cancer, including:
  • Smoking: The main cause of lung cancer is smoking, it leads to approximately 85% of cases.
  • Secondhand Smoke: Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke have a 20-30% higher risk of developing lung cancer.
  • Exposure to Radon Gas: A naturally occurring gas that can accumulate in homes and buildings, increasing the risk of lung cancer.
  • Occupational Hazards: Exposure to asbestos, arsenic, and other carcinogens in the workplace.
  • Genetic Factors: A family history or genetics can result in lung cancer or it can increase the risk of this disease.
  • Air Pollution: Exposure to polluted air can contribute to the development of lung cancer.
• Preventing diseases like lung cancer involves strategies of reducing exposure to risk factors and adopting healthy lifestyle choices. Some prevention strategies include:
  • Quitting smoking and avoiding consuming tobacco.
  • Testing for Radon gas leakage and taking corrective measures if needed.
  • Using protective equipment, wearing protective gear and hazmat suits in workplaces with exposure to harmful substances.
  • Maintaining a Healthy Diet to support lung health.
  • Undergoing regular screenings for those at high risk, such as smokers or individuals with a family history of lung cancer.

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