Understanding Lung Cancer: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lungs, which are two organs located in the chest cavity. It is one of the most common types of cancer and is often caused by smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. However, it can also be caused by other factors such as radon gas, asbestos, and air pollution.

Lung cancer typically starts when cells in the lungs become damaged and begin to grow uncontrollably. This can lead to a tumor forming, which can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Types of Lung Cancer

There are several types of lung cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer and accounts for about 80-90% of all cases. It can be further divided into subtypes based on the location of the tumor within the lung.

SCLC, on the other hand, is a more aggressive form of lung cancer that grows quickly and spreads rapidly to other parts of the body. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making it more challenging to treat.

Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies

While smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, there are other risk factors that can increase an individual's chances of developing the disease. These include exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and air pollution.

Prevention strategies include quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke, and taking steps to reduce exposure to environmental pollutants.