Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadliest types of cancer worldwide. It affects the lungs, which are essential organs for breathing, and is often diagnosed in advanced stages, making treatment more difficult. The main cause of the disease is smoking, but it can also occur in people who have never smoked, due to other risk factors. Understanding the symptoms, the types of the disease, and the treatment options is essential to promote early detection and increase the chances of cure.
What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in lung tissues. These cells can form tumors and, over time, invade other parts of the body—a process called metastasis. There are two main types:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): the most common type, accounting for about 85% of cases. It is further divided into adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): more aggressive, grows rapidly, and tends to spread more easily.
Main causes and risk factors
The most common cause of lung cancer is prolonged exposure to carcinogenic substances in cigarettes. However, other factors also increase the risk, including:
Secondhand smoke: people living with smokers are also exposed to the risks.
Exposure to environmental pollutants: such as radon, asbestos, and heavy metals.
Family history of the disease.
Chronic lung diseases: such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
Occupational exposure: in mining, chemical industries, and poorly ventilated places.
It is important to emphasize that even people who have never smoked can develop lung cancer, especially if exposed to environmental or genetic factors.
Symptoms of lung cancer
In the early stages, lung cancer may be silent, with no noticeable symptoms. When they do appear, they usually indicate that the disease is more advanced. The most common signs include:
Persistent cough that may worsen over time
Chest pain
Hoarseness
Shortness of breath
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
Loss of weight and appetite
Excessive fatigue
Recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
Because symptoms can be mistaken for other respiratory diseases, it’s essential to see a doctor if any persistent signs occur.
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of lung cancer involves a series of tests that help confirm the presence of the tumor, identify its type, and assess its extent:
Chest X-ray or CT scan: to visualize changes in the lungs.
MRI or PET scan: used to check if the cancer has spread.
Bronchoscopy: a procedure that allows direct visualization of the lungs and collection of samples.
Biopsy: analysis of suspicious tissue to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Staging the cancer (from I to IV) is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment options
Lung cancer treatment varies according to the type, stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Options include:
Surgery: indicated for cases where the tumor is localized and can be removed.
Radiotherapy: uses radiation to destroy cancer cells and may be used before or after surgery.
Chemotherapy: uses drugs that act throughout the body to fight diseased cells.
Targeted therapies: medications that attack specific mutations in cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight the tumor.
Combination therapies are common, and continuous medical follow-up is essential.
The importance of prevention
The main preventive measure for lung cancer is to avoid smoking. Quitting smoking, even after many years, significantly reduces the risk of the disease. Other preventive measures include:
Avoiding places with smoke or pollutant exposure
Using protective equipment in industrial environments
Maintaining a balanced diet
Engaging in regular physical activity
Having routine check-ups, especially in high-risk groups
Vaccination against HPV and other respiratory infections also helps keep the immune system more resilient.
Myths and truths about lung cancer
“Only smokers develop lung cancer.” False. Although smoking is the main cause, it is not the only one. People who have never smoked can also develop the disease.
“If I have a cough, it might be cancer.” False. Coughing can have many causes, and only a doctor can properly evaluate it.
“Quitting smoking is useless after many years.” False. Giving up smoking always brings benefits and reduces the risk of complications.
“Lung cancer is always fatal.” False. When diagnosed early, the chances of cure are significantly higher.
Quality of life and psychological support
Dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, psychological support, both for the patient and their family, is essential. Support groups, therapy, relaxation activities, and palliative care (when indicated) help improve quality of life at any stage of the disease.
