Research shows that lung cancer kills approximately 1.3 million people each year, it is one of the most common types of cancers in both men and women worldwide.
According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, approximately one out of every 14 men and women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with lung cancer at some point in their lifetime. However, being aware of the risk factors and paying attention to the 7 warning signs of lung cancer can have 50 percent greater chance of survival.
Therefore, pay close attention to the 7 warning signs of lung cancer and be assertive about bringing these up to your doctor:
1. Persistent Cough Or Changes In Cough
If you have a cold, your cough should go away after a week or two, but if it persists over a long time, you should see your doctor.
A persistent cough that leads to a hoarse, raspy voice that won’t go away, might indicate a lung issue. Coughs associated with lung cancer may be dry, or they may be productive.
4. Pain in the Chest
Chest pain that is felt deep in the lungs when you’re lifting, coughing or laughing is a prime symptom pf lung cancer. Also, a persistent chest pain, that won’t go away is a sign of lung cancer.
The pain occurs due to the growing size of the tumor that is pressing against surrounding tissues and nerve endings.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss 
Unintentional weight loss should always be evaluated. Cancers can cause changes in your metabolism so that weight loss occurs even if you eat the proper amount of calories.
An unexplained weight loss of 10 pounds or more may be associated with any types of cancer – such as, lung cancer.
When cancer is present, this weight drop may result from cancer cells using energy in the body. It could also result from shifts in the way the body uses food energy. Don’t write off a change in your weight if you haven’t been trying to shed pounds—it may be a clue to a change in your health.
6. Raspy, Hoarse Voice
Hoarseness of voice can occur with lung cancer. It happens when the tumor places pressure near your voice box (larynx) or irritates nerves traveling to the voice box.
You may first notice that you need to “clear your throat” more often, or a friend or family member may remark that your voice sounds different than usual. If you notice hoarseness that lasts, get it checked out.
7. Persistent Chest Infections
Infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia that don’t go away or keep coming back is an alarming sign that should be taken for granted.
Here’s how to reduce the risk for developing lung cancer
- Stop smoking. If you are a passive smoker, eliminate your exposure to tobacco smoke.
- Avoid carcinogen exposure. Take precautions to protect yourself from exposure to toxic chemicals at work.
- Adopt on taking regular exercise, as exercise can lower the risk of developing lung cancer and other types of cancer.
- Also eat a high fiber diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.
- Early scanning. Chest X-rays are not effective in detecting early-stage lung cancer. However, low-dose CT scans have been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality by 20%.
Image Credits: healthandhealthyliving, cancer-treatment-mandurai, medicinet, enkivillage, rayur
