Lung Cancer Awareness & Tobacco Abuse

Lung Cancer: What to Know and How to Protect Yourself

Lung cancer is among the most common and serious cancers worldwide. It begins with the growth of abnormal cells in the lungs uncontrollably, making it harder for the body to get oxygen. The two major categories include non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), the latter strongly linked to smoking.

Major Causes and Risks

The single most important cause of lung cancer is smoking, which is responsible for as many as 90% of cases. Thousands of chemicals in cigarette smoke damage lung tissue and lead to tumor formation. Exposure to secondhand smoke, asbestos, radon gas, and air pollution are also contributory factors.

Symptoms to watch for

Common symptoms include a chronic cough, pain in the chest, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, recurring infections, and unexplained fatigue or weight loss. These symptoms should be checked by a doctor, especially for those people who smoke or have high exposure risks.

Prevention Matters

Since lung cancer is usually diagnosed at a rather late stage, prevention often serves as the best form of protection. The most effective way of reducing the risk is to quit smoking, or never to start smoking at all. Over time, the risk of lung cancer decreases substantially after one has quit smoking. Keeping away from secondhand smoke and minimizing exposure to pollutants can also help in maintaining healthier lungs.

Healthy Coping Instead of Smoking

Many people smoke to manage stress, but nicotine only provides temporary relief and increases stress in the long term. Healthier coping strategies offer more mental and physical health benefits, including:

Exercise and keeping active

Deep breathing or mindfulness

Talking to supportive friends or adults

Creative outlets, such as drawing or writing.

Using quit-support resources if trying to stop smoking

The Takeaway

Lung cancer is a dangerous but largely preventable disease. Not smoking and using healthy ways to cope with stress can dramatically lower your risk and help you protect your long-term health.