A Lung Cancer Overview
Lung cancer refers to growth of malignant cells in the tissue of the lungs. The majority of lung cancers are formed of epithelial cells and are referred to as "carcinomas." Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death among men and the second among women, is responsible for 1.3 million deaths world-wide annually.
Lung cancer has two generally recognized types. These are small cell lung carcinoma and non-small cell lung carcinoma. While lung cancer is a deadly cancer, it is largely considered preventable, as the majority of lung cancers are caused by long-term exposure to tobacco smoke, meaning typically smokers are most at risk, though those exposed to extended period of second-hand smoke are also at risk. Lung cancer occurrence in non-smokers accounts for approximately 15% of incidence and has been attributed to exposure to asbestos, radon, and air pollution.
Distinguishing the type of lung cancer within a patient is important, as treatments vary in terms of effectiveness for non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. Treatment options are those commonly associated with other cancers and include surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Common symptoms of lung cancer include shortness of breath, chronic cough, weight loss, and fatigue.