What is Lung Cancer? Its Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnostic Methods
What is Lung Cancer? What Are Its Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnostic Methods?
Lung cancer refers to malignant tumors that develop as a result of the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in lung tissue. These cells initially multiply in their local area, forming a mass. Over time, as the cancer progresses, it can spread to surrounding tissues and distant organs.
This disease is one of the most common and serious types of cancer worldwide. Since it usually does not cause symptoms in the early stage, the disease is often at an advanced stage when diagnosed. Therefore, it is important for individuals at high risk to undergo regular check-ups and participate in screening programs.
General Information About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is fundamentally a disease that arises from the abnormal proliferation of cells in the lungs. The most common risk factors are smoking, long-term exposure to air pollution, asbestos, and harmful substances such as radon gas.
Due to the prevalence of these risk factors, especially smoking, lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in both men and women in many countries. Although lung cancer detected at an early stage can be treated, treatment options and success are often more limited because it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer symptoms generally develop in the late stages of the disease. Although it often progresses silently in the early period, the following complaints may appear over time:
Persistent and progressively worsening cough
Blood in sputum
Constant hoarseness
Difficulty swallowing
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Unexplained fatigue
Since these symptoms can also be observed in other lung diseases, it is essential to consult a specialist in case of suspicion.
How Do Lung Cancer Symptoms Change According to Stages?
Stage 0: Cancer cells are limited only to the innermost layer of the lung and usually do not cause symptoms; they are detected incidentally during routine examinations.
Stage 1: The tumor is still confined within the lung, with no spread. Mild cough, shortness of breath, or mild chest pain may be observed. Successful results can be achieved with surgery at this stage.
Stage 2: The cancer may have reached deeper tissues in the lung or nearby lymph nodes. Complaints such as blood in sputum, chest pain, and fatigue are more common. In addition to surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be required.
Stage 3: The disease has spread to areas outside the lung and to lymph nodes. Persistent cough, marked chest pain, difficulty swallowing, significant weight loss, and severe fatigue may be seen. Treatment generally involves a combination of several methods.
Stage 4: The cancer has spread beyond the lung to other organs (such as the liver, brain, or bones). Advanced shortness of breath, severe fatigue, bone and headache, loss of appetite, and significant weight loss are typical. At this stage, treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life.
What Are the Main Causes of Lung Cancer?
The most important risk factor is smoking. However, lung cancer can also occur in individuals who have never smoked. In general, the vast majority of all lung cancers have been found to be associated with smoking. Passive smoking, that is, indirect exposure to cigarette smoke, also significantly increases the risk.
Other risk factors include asbestos exposure. Asbestos, a mineral resistant to heat and abrasion, was frequently used in the past. Today, exposure is mostly observed in occupational settings, especially during asbestos removal.
Additionally, air pollution, radon gas, ionizing radiation, lung diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and family predisposition can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Are There Different Types of Lung Cancer?
Lung cancers are divided into two main groups according to the cell structures from which they originate:
Small cell lung cancer: Accounts for about 10-15% of all cases. It tends to grow rapidly and spread early, and is often associated with smoking.
Non-small cell lung cancer: Covers the vast majority of all lung cancers (about 85%). This group is divided into three common subtypes:
Adenocarcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma
Large cell carcinoma
Although the treatment response and course of non-small cell lung cancers are generally better, the stage of the disease and overall health status are important factors.
Factors and Risk Factors Leading to Lung Cancer
Active smoking is the strongest trigger of the disease.
Even in non-smokers, the risk increases significantly due to passive smoking.
Long-term exposure to radon gas is especially important in poorly ventilated buildings.
Asbestos increases the risk in those exposed in occupational settings.
Intense air pollution and exposure to industrial chemicals are also risk factors.
A family history of lung cancer may increase personal risk.
Having COPD or similar chronic lung diseases also brings additional risk.
How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?
Modern imaging techniques and laboratory tests are used in the diagnosis of lung cancer. Especially for individuals in risk groups, annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography may be recommended.
If there are clinical findings, chest X-ray, computed tomography, sputum analysis, and, if necessary, biopsy (taking a tissue sample) are among the standard diagnostic methods. Based on the data obtained, the stage, spread, and type of cancer are determined. After this stage, the most appropriate treatment approach is planned for the patient.
How Long Does It Take for Lung Cancer to Develop?
In lung cancer, it usually takes 5–10 years from the onset of abnormal cell proliferation to the disease becoming apparent. Due to this long development period, most people are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Therefore, regular check-ups and early screening are of great importance.
What Are the Treatment Options for Lung Cancer?
The treatment approach is determined according to the type and stage of the cancer and the general health status of the patient. In early stages, it is often possible to remove the tumor surgically. In advanced stages, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these may be preferred. Which treatment will be applied is planned individually by a multidisciplinary team.
Surgery is an effective option, especially in early stages and in cases with limited spread. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, a part of the lung or the entire lung may be removed. Treatments applied in advanced stages mostly aim to slow the progression of the disease and reduce symptoms.
The Importance of Regular Screening and Early Diagnosis
If lung cancer can be detected by screening before symptoms develop, treatment success and survival rates can increase significantly. Especially in people aged 50 and over who smoke, annual screening can help detect the disease early. If you think you are in a risk group, it is important to consult a specialist and participate in an appropriate screening program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the first symptoms of lung cancer?
Persistent cough, blood in sputum, hoarseness, and shortness of breath are usually among the first warning signs. If you have these complaints, consult a doctor.
Is lung cancer seen only in smokers?
No. Although smoking is the main risk factor, the disease can also develop in people who have never smoked. Passive smoking, genetic, and environmental factors also play a role.
Lung
Can lung cancer be hereditary?In some families, genetic predisposition may increase the risk. However, most cases are associated with smoking and environmental exposure.
Can lung cancer be treated at an early stage?
Yes, with appropriate treatment in the early stages, complete recovery is possible. Therefore, early diagnosis saves lives.
How is the stage of cancer determined?
Staging is performed based on the extent of cancer spread and the organs involved, using imaging tests and, if necessary, biopsy.
Which other diseases can it be confused with?
Chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, or lung infections may present similar symptoms. A detailed evaluation is required for a definitive diagnosis.
Is lung cancer treatment difficult?
Treatment options vary depending on the stage of the disease and the patient's health status. It is essential to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient.
What can be done to prevent lung cancer?
Avoiding smoking and tobacco products, preventing exposure to secondhand smoke, taking protective measures in high-risk occupations, and undergoing regular health check-ups are beneficial.
At what ages does lung cancer occur?
Although it is generally seen in adults over the age of 50, it can occur at any age. The risk is especially higher in smokers.
Can quality of life be improved for those living with lung cancer?
Yes, today, thanks to treatment methods and supportive care options, quality of life can be improved.
Who is recommended to undergo lung cancer screening?
Regular screening is recommended especially for individuals over 50 who have smoked for a long time and have additional risk factors.
How can relatives support the patient during treatment?
Physical and psychological support positively affects the patient's quality of life during and after treatment.
Is lung cancer surgery risky?
As with any surgery, there are some risks. With thorough preoperative evaluation and appropriate preparation, risks are minimized.
What is the use of "targeted therapy" in treatment?
In some types of lung cancer, tumor-specific targeted ("smart") therapies can be applied. Your doctor may consider this option based on the genetic analysis of the tumor.
What happens if lung cancer is not treated?
If left untreated, cancer can progress rapidly and impair vital organ functions. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
References
World Health Organization (WHO): Lung Cancer
American Cancer Society: Lung Cancer
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Lung Cancer
European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO): Lung Cancer Guidelines
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN): Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology – Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA): Lung Cancer Screening and Early Detection