Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer globally. It affects both men and women. According to the American Cancer society, nearly 235,760 cases of lung cancer will be reported in 2021. However, the number of cases of this cancer is on decline. Here’s everything one needs to know about lung cancer:

Causes
There are no specific causes of lung cancer. It is not yet established whether physiological changes or external factors cause this cancer. However, there are certain factors that increase the risk of lung cancer. Some of them are:

• Smoking
  One of the biggest risk factors for lung cancer is smoking. Nearly 80 percent of deaths due to lung cancer have been due to tobacco smoking. Exposure to secondhand smoking can also increase the risk of lung cancer.
• Exposure to carcinogenic substances
  Asbestos, radon, arsenic, benzene, and cadmium are some examples of carcinogenic substances. People who are employed in workplaces and factories that deal with these substances are at a high risk of exposure. This also increases their risk of lung cancer.
• Air pollution
  The presence of toxic substances in the environment due to air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer. Areas that encounter high degrees of air pollution for prolonged periods of time may have higher instances of lung cancer among the population.
• Exposure to diesel exhaust
  Among non-smokers, frequent and prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust can also be a trigger for cancer of the lungs. The particulate matter from the exhaust goes into the body through the respiratory system and may trigger the growth of cancerous cells.
• Genetic issues
  In many cases, genes can be a major risk factor for lung cancer. Changes to the DNA of lung cells can result in abnormal cell growth. Gene mutation can be inherited as well. This usually happens when a close family member also has lung cancer.

Symptoms
Generally, lung cancer does not show any symptoms in the early stages. It is only when the disease progresses that the symptoms begin to manifest over time. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms of lung cancer.

• Cough that is persistent for two weeks
• Recurrent chest infection
• Blood in cough
• Experiencing pain or ache while coughing or breathing
• Periods of breathlessness
• Exhaustion
• Appetite loss
• Unexplained and sudden weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Wheezing
• Voice becomes hoarse
• Persistent pain in the chest or neck
• Swollen neck or face

Types of lung cancer
There are two major types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

• SCLC
  Also known as oat cell cancer, small cell lung cancer starts in the bronchi. Caused mainly by tobacco smoking, this type of cancer constitutes about 20 percent of overall lung cancer cases in the country.
• NSCLC
  One of the most common types of lung cancer, NSCLC progresses at a slower rate than SCLC. Non-small cell lung cancer is further categorized into lung adenocarcinoma, squamous cell, and large-cell carcinoma.

Treatment options
Treatment for lung cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer. Some of the common treatment options that doctors recommend are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

Sometimes, a single form of treatment is enough. But in some cases, a combination of treatments (such as surgery and chemotherapy) might be required to get rid of the cancerous cells.

Diet
A healthy and balanced diet is usually recommended to deal with the symptoms of lung cancer and the pain caused by certain modes of treatment. Antioxidant-rich foods, olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and fresh and colorful fruits and vegetables are usually prescribed to patients of lung cancer. Foods to avoid usually include junk food, sugary foods, carbonated drinks, and too much caffeine.

Home remedies
Certain measures can be taken to alleviate the discomfort and pain caused by various symptoms of lung cancer. Healthy lifestyle changes can be incorporated to strengthen the immune system and to make the treatment process more effective. Quitting smoking, eating healthy, and exercising regularly are just some of the many ways in which the condition can be effectively managed.