Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, typically in the cells lining the air passages. Millions of individuals are impacted each year, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The two main types of lung cancer are small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with NSCLC being the more common type. Often, lung cancer remains asymptomatic in its early stages, making it harder to detect without proactive health checks. In order to increase survival rates, awareness and early diagnosis are essential. (World Health Organization, 2023).
Lung cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related death worldwide, accounting for around 11.4% of all new cancer cases. Globally, lung cancer was responsible for 1.8 million deaths and about 2.2 million new cases (GLOBOCAN, 2020). One of the top five most prevalent cancers in Indonesia is lung cancer, which has a notably high death rate because of late-stage diagnosis. These figures highlight the urgency that increased awareness and early screening are needed to properly combat this illness.
The risk of lung cancer is significantly affected by environmental and lifestyle variables. About 80% of cases are caused by smoking, however passive smoker exposure is a major risk factor as well. Lung cancer risk is increased by environmental contaminants such radon, asbestos, and industrial chemicals, particularly in places with high population density or industrial activity. Important preventive actions include leading a healthy lifestyle, abstaining from tobacco, and limiting exposure to dangerous chemicals (American Cancer Society, 2023).
Lung cancer symptoms often go unnoticed in the early stages, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Many individuals dismiss these symptoms as minor respiratory issues, which can be dangerous. Recognizing these early signs and seeking medical attention promptly can significantly improve outcomes, remember B.R.E.A.T.H.E (Lung Cancer Research Foundation, 2024):
- B – Blood in cough
- R – Recurring respiratory infections
- E – Enduring cough that is new or different
- A – Ache or pain in the shoulder, back, or chest
- T – Trouble breathing
- H – Hoarseness or wheezing
- E – Exhaustion, weakness, or loss of appetite
The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer have been transformed due to the latest advances in technology. Less invasive and more precise diagnostic alternatives are offered by methods like liquid biopsy, which uses a blood sample to analyse cancer biomarkers. While immunotherapy strengthens the body’s immune system to more effectively combat cancer cells, targeted therapy concentrates on particular genetic abnormalities in tumours. These developments are increasing survival rates and quality of life by providing patients with more personalised and effective treatment alternatives (World Health Organization, 2023).
Precision medicine represents a breakthrough in lung cancer care, offering personalized treatment based on a patient’s genetic and molecular profile. This approach allows oncologists to select therapies that target specific cancer characteristics, improving efficacy and reducing side effects. Tailoring treatment to each individual, precision medicine enhances patient outcomes and represents a significant step forward in lung cancer management (Krzyszczyk et al., 2018).
Effectively fighting lung cancer requires a comprehensive approach that includes treatment, awareness, and collaboration. Access to cutting-edge treatments and diagnostics is guaranteed by cooperation between legislators, researchers, and healthcare professionals. Public awareness programs educate people about symptoms, risk factors, and the value of early screening. Furthermore, patients and their families have hope thanks to medical innovations like immunotherapy and precision medicine. Through collaborating, these initiatives create an integrated fight against lung cancer and work towards a time where improved survival rates are the result of early detection with effective treatment.
Sources:
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Lung cancer. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lung-cancer
- American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Risk factors for lung cancer. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
- Lung Cancer Research Foundation. (n.d.). Lung cancer facts. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.lungcancerresearchfoundation.org/for-patients/free-educational-materials/lung-cancer-facts/
- Krzyszczyk, P., Acevedo, A., Davidoff, E. J., Timmins, L. M., Marrero-Berrios, I., Patel, M., White, C., Lowe, C., Sherba, J. J., Hartmanshenn, C., O’Neill, K. M., Balter, M. L., Fritz, Z. R., Androulakis, I. P., Schloss, R. S., & Yarmush, M. L. (2018). The growing role of precision and personalized medicine for cancer treatment. Technology, 6(3-4), 79–100. https://doi.org/10.1142/S2339547818300020