In many cases, lung cancer will be curable with proper treatment. Below, we will discuss some of the available treatments and their effectiveness.
Lung cancer develops when the genetic material of lung cells becomes mutated. The mutated cells then reproduce rapidly without regard for the normal function or shape of the lung. Once a tumor forms, it can block air passages in the lung. Lung cancer mutations prevent normal cells from dying, preventing them from functioning properly. Although the exact mechanism of how cancer cells reproduce is still unknown, they have been linked to lung cancer.
The best diagnostic tests for lung cancer diagnosis include the use of a CT scan, chest x-ray, and imaging tests. Chest x-rays are often the first test used to diagnose the disease. The x-ray may show an individual mass, multifocal tumors, solitary pulmonary nodules, or pleural thickening. CT scans, on the other hand, are more sensitive and can identify metastatic sites.
A physical examination will include asking about your medical history and listening to your breathing. Your physician will also check your liver and stomach for masses. Chest x-rays are likely to be performed as the first test, but they do not give a clear picture of the cancer. A CT scan, on the other hand, uses computers to generate 3-D images. Once the CT scan shows the tumor’s location and size, your doctor can choose the most effective treatment.
Pain in the lungs is a sign of lung cancer. This may be mistaken for muscle pain. It may increase with movement and worsen at night. Treatments can help reduce the likelihood of a pleural effusion. Symptoms of lung cancer may also appear on the arms, neck, and spine. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all if they have lung cancer. In addition, their cancer may have spread to other parts of the body, causing symptoms of breathlessness.
When cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it may be treated with chemotherapy drugs that target specific parts of the cancer. For example, chemotherapy drugs with specific target peptides may work better against certain types of lung cancer than others. In addition to chemotherapy, targeted therapies are also available to treat lung cancer. For some non-small cell types of lung cancer, targeted therapy is an effective option. They target specific genes or proteins that help the cancer to grow.
To decrease the risk of lung cancer, smokers should quit smoking. These methods include medications, nicotine replacement products, and support groups. Quitting smoking should be a top priority if you are living with someone who smokes. If possible, ask them to smoke outside. If they are working, avoid being around smokers by choosing smoke-free workplaces and eating locations. You may also want to consider avoiding public places where smoking is permitted and find smoke-free options in public areas.
