Every November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month is observed in the UK. The campaign’s aim is to encourage people who are exhibiting typical lung cancer symptoms to see their GP. The most prevalent cancer in the world is lung cancer, with 48,549 new cases and 34,771 deaths from the disease between 2017-2019 in the UK. Early diagnosis can significantly impact outcomes and it is imperative that everyone is aware of the signs of lung cancer.
Lung cancer can affect anyone, it does not discriminate, and it is therefore crucial that everyone is aware of the warning signs and symptoms. The most common symptoms to look out for are:
- Persistent cough that lasts more than 2 or 3 weeks
- Reoccurring chest infections
- Persistent breathlessness
- Ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- Unexplained tiredness or lack of energy
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
- Coughing up blood
- Hoarseness in your voice
It’s a common misconception that only those who smoke get lung cancer. Unfortunately, people who have never smoke can develop lung cancer too. However, smoking is the most frequent cause. This is due to the fact that it necessitates routine inhalation of more than 60 different toxic substances that are known to cause cancer. Other causes of lung cancer can be:
- Passive smoking
- Occupational exposure and pollution: Randon, arsenic, asbestos, silica, nickel, beryllium, cadmium and coal and coke fumes
- Diesel fumes
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
