Myths and Facts Related to Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one the most common types of cancer that occurs globally. There are several reasons for one to develop lung cancer, along with several myths. Here are some myths and facts about lung cancer that need to be burst. 

Smoking tobacco is the sole reason

Although smoking is one of the causes of lung cancer, it is not the only factor in the development of lung cancer. Non-smokers and passive smokers, who inhale secondhand smoke while not smoking themselves, have been linked to lung cancer cases. Exposure to asbestos, diesel fumes, arsenic, radiation, and radon gas can also lead to lung cancer. 

There are beliefs that only smoking tobacco leads to cancer, but cannabis does not lead to cancer is also a myth. But, cutting down or quitting smoking can be an effective method for the prevention of lung cancer. 

Lung cancer is terminal

Lung cancer is considered a terminal condition, and there are no cures for it. Fortunately, that is not the case with advancing medical treatments. Depending on the stage of cancer of the individual, treatments ranging from medication, radiation therapy, and surgeries can help combat lung cancer. 

Pollution and smoking comparison

The risk of lung cancer can increase when breathing in pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Smoking can definitely be a factor triggering lung cancer, but there is no proof that one of the causes of lung cancer is more hazardous than the other. The combination of the two can be worse, according to medical experts.

Older people are more prone

The majority of lung cancer patients are aged 65 and above. But this does not mean only older people get affected. Younger generations are also prone to it. There are records of people under 50 falling prey to lung cancer. The younger generations are prone to lung conditions like cancer due to several reasons. Living conditions and daily habits are a few of them..

Quitting cannot prevent

People believe the damage once done is done, and there is no point in quitting smoking. If one has been smoking for years and decides to bring the habit to a halt, it will help reduce further inflammation and damage to the lungs. 

Men are mostly prone

The rate of men affected by lung cancer is slightly higher, but women also develop lung cancer. Even women who don’t smoke develop the condition. The difference in the risk ratio is about 1 in 15 men and 1 in 17 women. It is essential to have awareness, despite gender. 

The same treatment for anybody with lung cancer

Lung cancer can be of two types: 

• Non-small cell lung cancer: It is the most common type of cancer that grows and spreads slowly, and small cell lung cancer. 
• Small cell lung cancer: This type of cancer is not as common but spreads quickly, making it difficult to treat. 

The treatment of lung cancer varies from one type to the other. It will also vary with the stage of cancer, which will determine the level at which the disease has spread. Therapies from radiation, chemo, and surgeries where the tumor is removed, a part of the lung, or the entire organ are removed considering the mentioned factors. 

This blog hopes to bring awareness among people about the myths associated with the causes of lung cancer and the condition in general. Visit a doctor immediately if you find any abnormalities.