Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the lungs. It is one of the most common and deadliest forms of cancer, and it is responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other type of cancer. There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SCLC is a more aggressive form of the disease that tends to spread quickly, while NSCLC is a slower-growing type of cancer that is more common and tends to be less aggressive.
Symptoms of lung cancer may include:
- Cough that does not go away or gets worse
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Blood in the sputum (phlegm) coughed up from the lungs
Risk factors for developing lung cancer include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants, a family history of lung cancer, and a personal history of lung disease.
Treatment for lung cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these approaches. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage and type of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient.