Health Topics for Cancer

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Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the lungs. Cigarette smoking is by far the most important preventable cause of lung cancer. Tobacco is linked to over 80 percent of all cases.

Other factors include exposure to:

• industrial substances (such as chemicals and asbestos)
• radiation exposure from occupational, medical, and environmental sources
• air pollution and
• radon exposure

People who are cigarette smokers and have exposure to these risk factors have an increased chance of getting cancer of the lung. Second-hand tobacco smoke increases lung cancer risk for nonsmokers. In smokers who stop smoking, damaged lung tissue and cancer risk may return to near normal.

It is hard to detect lung cancer in its early stages. There are usually no symptoms with early lung cancer. signs and symptoms that might indicate lung cancer include persistent cough, phlegm streaked with blood, recurring pneumonia or bronchitis, and chest pain.

Chest x-rays and analysis of cells in the sputum are usually the first tests if there is a suspicion of cancer. Special x-rays of the chest, CT scan and a fiberoptic examination (looking through a flexible scope into the lung), and biopsy of the lung help to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatments depend upon the type and stage of the cancer. Options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. For localized cancers, surgery is usually chosen. Radiation and chemotherapy are often used in combination with surgery.

Once discovered, lung cancer usually has a poor forecast. Prevention of the disease is crucial. If you smoke, you can lower your risk of developing lung cancer by stopping smoking right now. There are many ways to stop smoking. Ask your healthcare provider for information on the various methods available. She or he might also recommend one of the many local quit-smoking programs.

Consult the UI Health Care Cancer Information Service at 800-237-1225 or 319-356-3000 for more information about this topic.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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