Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer (pronounced: luhng kan-ser) is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. The lungs are two spongy organs in your chest that take in oxygen when you inhale and release carbon dioxide when you exhale.
Etymology
The term "Lung Cancer" is derived from the Latin words "cancer" meaning crab and "pulmo" meaning lung. The disease was named "cancer" because of the crab-like spread of the invading cells.
Types of Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer is broadly classified into two main types based on the appearance of the cancer cells under the microscope. They are:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type of lung cancer, making up about 85% of all cases. NSCLC has three subtypes: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
- Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): This type of lung cancer occurs almost exclusively in heavy smokers and is less common than non-small cell lung cancer.
Symptoms
Lung Cancer symptoms may include:
- A new cough that doesn't go away
- Coughing up blood, even a small amount
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Losing weight without trying
- Bone pain
- Headache
Risk Factors
Risk factors for lung cancer include:
- Smoking
- Exposure to radon gas
- Exposure to certain toxins
- Family history of lung cancer
- Radiation therapy to the lungs
- Air pollution
Diagnosis
Lung Cancer is diagnosed through a series of tests that may include imaging tests, sputum cytology, and a biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment options for lung cancer include:
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lung Cancer
- Wikipedia's article - Lung Cancer
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