If you're looking for facts about lung cancer, keep reading for the answers to some frequently asked questions.

Is there more than one type of of this disease?

Lung cancer is divided into two different types. These are non-small and small cell forms. They are classified differently because the cells grow and spread differently with each type.

Non-small cancer of the lungs is the most common and covers three different types - squamus cell carcinoma cancer, large cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Small lung cancer happens in about 25% of all reported cases and generally grows and spreads to other organs very quickly.

Is cancer of the lungs preventable?

There are three ways to prevent this killer - quit smoking, avoid second-hand smoke and stay away from air-borne carcinogens at work. If you're concerned about your risk of developing this illness, avoiding tobacco smoke is typically your best defense.

What are the major causes?

The primary cause of lung cancer in most cases is smoking tobacco products. Of all the facts about the disease, this is the most critical and apparent. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke will damage cells. Other causes include exposure to carcinogens like asbestos or radon. Genetics may also play a role in the prevalence of the disease.

How do doctors detect it initially?

Most cases of lung cancer caught during the early stages of the disease are found accidentally in chest X-rays. Unfortunately, symptoms typically aren't exhibited until the later stages.

For a confident diagnosis, a biopsy is required. When a doctor performs a biopsy, he or she removes a small amount of tissue from the lung to test it for cancerous cells.

Does it have any symptoms?

Most cancerous lung symptoms don't appear until after the disease has reached the later stages. That said, the symptoms include constant coughing or wheezing, loss of appetite, chest pains, upper abdomen pains, bronchitis or pneumonia, blood being coughed up, general fatigue, a persistent hoarse voice and a dry, sore throat.

Can the disease be treated, and how?

Lung cancer can be treated, but the treatments will depend on how far advanced the disease has progressed, the patient's strength and the type of cancer. Once identified, is typically treated with one of - or a combination of - chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer, but it's very rare. The disease is caused by exposure to asbestos. Essentially, the asbestos fibers attack the lung lining, causing the formation of tumors.

Whose more at risk - men or women?

Women who smoke are twice as likely to be diagnosed with this cancer than men who are smokers.

I'm older and a smoker, will quitting really help me?

Yes, it can! Every year a person goes without smoking, their chances of contracting the disease are significantly reduced. Out of all the facts about it, this is the most critical. Remember, whether you're 18 or 80, quitting can help you prevent lung cancer.



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