The number one cause of cancer deaths among men and women globally each year is lung cancer. In 2019, it’s estimated that approximately 228,000 new cases were diagnosed, resulting in approximately 142,000 deaths. The general survival rate is poor because the cancer is usually not diagnosed until it is at an advanced stage.
There are two kinds of lung cancer. The first—and most common—is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This form accounts for approximately 80-85% of all lung cancers and is most often found in the lung tissue. The most important factor in survival rate for this type is the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. Radiation therapy can produce a cure in a small percentage of patients and helps to relieve symptoms.
The second kind—small cell lung cancer (SCLC)—can most often be found in the bronchi. 98% of all small cell lung cancer cases can be attributed to tobacco smoking. This cancer can be fatal within 2-4 months of diagnosis. It spreads more rapidly than NSCLC, however, it is the most responsive cancer to radiation therapy.
The number one cause of lung cancer is tobacco smoking, which accounts for approximately 90% of all lung cancer diagnoses. Other causes are second-hand smoke, exposure to certain toxins and/or a family history of cancer. The best way to avoid being diagnosed with lung cancer is to quit smoking and stay away from others who smoke.
The best chance for surviving lung cancer is to have it diagnosed as early as possible, before it begins to spread. We have done the research and compiled the top ten early signs of lung cancer for you.
Disclaimer: The information in this content is for general informational purposes only, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your lifestyle.
Swelling of Face or Neck
This condition is actually called superior vena cava syndrome and it can cause swelling of the face, hands, neck, and chest. This is caused by tumors in the lungs pressing on the large blood vessel (the superior vena cava) that returns blood to the heart.
Swelling such as this should be reported to your physician.
Coughing Up Blood
Accompanying persistent cough, coughing up blood or rust colored sputum is usually one of the first symptoms of lung cancer or another serious lung condition. It occurs in approximately one-fifth of all lung cancer patients.
You may notice only a small amount of blood; however, even just two teaspoons of bloody sputum per day is considered a medical emergency.
Hoarseness
Tumors growing in the chest can eventually begin to put pressure on the vocal cords or can cause pressure on the laryngeal nerve, which leads to the voice box.
Persistent hoarseness should be evaluated by a physician.
Recurring Lung Infections
As discussed earlier, spreading or growing lung tumors can block the airways. In unsuspecting lung cancer patients, this can cause frequent, unexplained lung infections.
If this occurs, your doctor may already have suspicions and will order a cat scan in order to diagnose the underlying issue. If not, you should request a cat scan, since around 25% of x-rays can miss lung cancer.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss of more than 5% of your body weight or more than 10 pounds in a 6-12-month period can be a symptom of any type of cancer or another serious condition.
It’s a common sign that something is very wrong, and it occurs in approximately 35-75% of people with lung cancer prior to diagnosis.
Fever
A fever indicates that something abnormal is occurring somewhere in your body. It’s the body’s way of minimizing heat loss and fighting off any type of infection.
If you have a fever that runs too high or lasts more than a few days, it’s time to contact your physician to see what the cause may be.
Fatigue
This isn’t the everyday type of fatigue that can be fixed with a good night’s rest. We are speaking of what patients refer to as “cancer fatigue.” It’s an all-encompassing, full-body kind of fatigue or exhaustion.
The battle that the body fights against the cancer invading it will cause a drain on your energy and will give you a constant worn-down feeling.
Wheezing
Wheezing can sound like a kind of whistle coming from your chest. It can be caused by constricted air passages, which can occur often during lung cancer.
Much of the time this lung cancer symptom is accompanied by shortness of breath and chest pain.
Shortness of Breath
Large tumors, like the ones that can be found in NSCLC and/or the spread of cancer can cause blockages in major airways as well as helping fluid build up around the lungs. This can cause shortness of breath during even the easiest of tasks.
If this symptom occurs, is constant, and interferes with your daily life, contact a physician.
Persistent Cough
Persistent cough is the most common symptom present at the time of diagnosis. Unfortunately, there are a lot of conditions that can cause a persistent cough. These coughs can be wet or dry, can occur at any time, and can interfere with sleep.
If you notice that you’re coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum, contact a doctor immediately.
