Lung Cancer Explained: From Diagnosis to World Lung Cancer Day

Lung cancer is a cancer type that begins with the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs. It’s a serious health concern that leads to severe harm and death. In fact, lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths globally. While lung cancer has long been associated with smoking, awareness around other risk factors and emerging treatments is essential to make progress against it.

This blog delves into the complexities of lung cancer, explaining its causes, types, and symptoms. Additionally, it covers the evolving landscape of treatment and how initiatives like the World Lung Cancer Day are playing a pivotal role in raising global awareness. Read on!

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a disease that occurs due to the uncontrolled division of cells present in the lungs. As part of their normal functioning, cells undergo division and the creation of more copies of themselves. But sometimes, mutations (changes) cause these cells to make more copies when they shouldn’t. The uncontrolled dividing of the cells results in the development of tumors (masses of tissue) that interfere with the proper functioning of the organ. Lung cancer typically starts in the airways (bronchioles). It can also begin in the small air sacs (alveoli).

What Are the Main Lung Cancer Types?

The are various cancer types affecting the lungs. But the term “lung cancer” is usually used for two main types. These include:

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

NSCLC is the most prevalent form of lung cancer. It accounts for over 80% to 85% of lung cancer cases. Common subtypes of NSCLC include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These subtypes begin from different lung cell types. They are typically grouped as NSCLC, as the treatment and outlook of these subtypes are typically similar.

• Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma is a cancer type that begins in the glandular cells of the lungs. It typically starts in the outer regions of the lung tissue. Smoking is a risk factor for adenocarcinoma. However, it is also frequently found in non-smokers. It is more common in women as compared to men.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This cancer subtype begins in the flat cells lining the airways. Smoking is the primary risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma.
• Large Cell Carcinoma: This can appear in any part of the lung. The rapid growth and spread of large cell carcinoma make treatment difficult.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

SCLC accounts for over 10% to 15% of all lung cases. SCLC undergoes rapid growth and is difficult to treat as compared to NSCLC. In most cases, it’s typically found as a small tumor that’s already spread to other body parts. Specific types of SCLC include combined small cell carcinoma and small cell carcinoma.

What Is Metastatic Lung Cancer?

Metastatic lung cancer is cancer that originates in the lungs and spread to other body parts. Here, the cancer cells travel through the lymphatic system or bloodstream to reach other body parts. Metastatic lung cancer is harder to treat as compared to cancers that haven’t reached other body parts. The treatment for this cancer type shares similarities with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

The symptoms of lung cancer are similar to those of many other less serious diseases. Many individuals don’t experience symptoms until the disease has reached its advanced state. For individuals who do experience symptoms, they may take the form of:

A new cough that doesn’t go away or worsens with time.

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Wheezing
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the neck, face, or upper chest
• Unexplained weight loss

Celebrating World Lung Cancer Day

World Lung Cancer Day is observed annually on August 1. The day aims to raise awareness about lung cancer and its prevention. Also, it emphasizes the importance of early detection. It’s a day to address the stigma surrounding the disease and encourage support for those affected. The day also focuses on promoting research and improving treatment options.

The World Lung Cancer Day 2025 theme is “Stronger Together: United for Lung Cancer Awareness.” The theme highlights that early detection can help save lives. Additionally, it reminds us that together we can positively impact the outcome of a lung cancer diagnosis.

How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?

The diagnosis of lung cancer can involve various steps. During the first visit, the healthcare provider will assess the individual’s symptoms and enquire about their medical history. The healthcare provider will also conduct a physical exam. As mentioned earlier, the symptoms of lung cancer are similar to many other common diseases. Therefore, the provider may go with blood tests and a chest X-ray. More imaging tests, such as a CT scan or biopsy, follow if the provider suspects that the individual may have lung cancer.

Treatments for lung cancer are designed to eliminate cancer from the body or inhibit its growth. Treatment can remove cancerous cells. Some treatment options may prevent the cancerous cells from multiplying or teach the immune system to fight them. The specific treatment is based on various factors, including the lung cancer type, its location, and whether it has spread to other body parts.

Lung cancer treatments can take the form of surgery, radiation therapy, radiofrequency ablation, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Surgery is typically performed on patients who have SCLC that’s limited to a single tumor or NSCLC that hasn’t spread. Chemotherapy involves the use of multiple medications that aim to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Radiation therapy leverages high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.

Conclusion

Lung cancer is a complex and often misunderstood disease. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. However, there’s still much to do in terms of awareness and equity in healthcare access. Initiatives like World Lung Cancer Day 2025 serve as a reminder of the importance of reducing stigma associated with the disease, promoting early diagnosis, and adopting advanced treatment options.