Latest News

  • World Lung Cancer Day

    World Lung Cancer Day is observed every year on the 1st of August to spread awareness about lung cancer, its causes, treatment and issues relating to it. Lung Cancer is the most common cause of death due to cancer around the world with approximately 1.80 million deaths every year. It single-handedly causes more deaths than breast cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancers combined. Lung cancer awareness is essential to educate people about the risk factors and to promote timely detection, diagnosis and treatment.

    What is lung cancer?

    Cancer that begins in the lungs is known as lung cancer. It may begin in the lungs and spread to lymph nodes or other organs in the body. It may also spread from other parts of the body to the lungs.

    Types of lung cancer

    Cancer that begins in the lungs is called Primary Lung Cancer.

    If cancer spreads to the lungs from another part of the body, is known as Secondary Lung Cancer.

    Primary lung cancer has two major types:

    Non-small cell lung cancer

    This is the most common form of lung cancer that is one of the three types- squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma or large cell carcinoma.

    Small cell lung cancer

    This cancer is less common yet spreads much faster than non-small cell lung cancer.

    Risk factors for lung cancer

    • Smoking
    • Second-hand smoke
    • Previous radiation therapy to the chest
    • Exposure to asbestos, arsenic, radon, etc.
    • Family history of lung cancer

    Leading Cause of Lung Cancer

    Cigarette smoking is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer around the world. Smoking tobacco products largely increases the risk of the disease. A majority of lung cancer deaths are due to smoking and second-hand smoking.

    Symptoms of lung cancer

    Usually, there are no signs or symptoms during the early stages, but patients with lung cancer develop certain symptoms like:

    • Persistent cough
    • Cough usually with blood
    • Chest pain
    • Wheezing
    • Unusual tiredness and unexplained weight loss
    • Breathlessness

    If you experience these symptoms, then you need to consult a doctor.

    How can lung cancer be treated?

    Although there aren’t any evident symptoms when it comes to lung cancer, early diagnosis can prove to be very helpful. Treatment may depend on the medical conditions, but usually includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, targeted drug therapy and immunotherapy.

    Prevention of lung cancer

    All lung cancers cannot be prevented, but keeping a check on the risk factors may be helpful.

    • Say no to smoking
    • Avoid secondhand smoke
    • Avoid exposure to cancer-causing agents
    • Eat a nutritious diet

    Spread awareness

    World Lung Cancer Day is observed every year to aid better understanding of the disease and promote early treatment. 1 in 5 cancer deaths is due to lung cancer and being cautious with its risk factors may significantly contribute to reducing this number.

    Regular checkups and timely treatments can make a huge difference. Also, it is now very easy to consult doctors and discover the best hospitals for your checkups, follow-ups or treatments. From finding the best oncologist in Oman to booking an appointment, it can all be done with ease. All you’ve got to do is download the Doktor Oman app and the best healthcare facilities of Oman are just one click away!

    .