Lung cancer remains one of the most common and dangerous types of cancer in the world. In the UK alone, the disease is diagnosed in more than 47,000 people each year. The particular difficulty is that in the early stages of the disease there are almost no clear symptoms - or they resemble a common cold or bronchitis.
Why lung cancer is difficult to detect right away
As explained by the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), this is because the lungs have virtually no nerve endings, and pain there only appears in the later stages. In addition, each patient's symptoms may be different, so it is important to be attentive to your body.
Signals to pay attention to
According to the CTCA, one of the first warning signs is persistent bronchitis that doesn't go away within a few weeks. Other common symptoms include:
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cough that only gets worse over time;
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blood in the sputum (hemoptysis);
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chest pain or difficulty breathing;
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shortness of breath for no apparent reason;
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constant feeling of fatigue and weakness;
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loss of appetite and sudden weight loss.
When to see a doctor
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) advises you to see a doctor if you notice a persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks or shortness of breath that doesn't go away. Your GP may carry out a basic lung function test, including measuring your inspiratory and expiratory volumes.
Who is at risk?
Smoking remains the biggest risk factor, accounting for about 70% of cases. However, this does not mean that non-smokers are completely protected: passive inhalation of tobacco smoke, as well as prolonged contact with toxic substances (for example, diesel fumes), can also contribute to the development of cancer.
Early diagnosis of lung cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, regular medical check-ups, paying attention to your body's signals, and giving up bad habits can save your life.
