World Lung Cancer Day: 7 ways to reduce the risk

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Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men and women around the globe. According to the data by the World Health Organization (WHO), lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths across the world. Lung cancer happens when abnormal cells grow and multiply and form tumors in the body. Smoking is believed to be the leading cause of this cancer, with over 85 percent of the cases happening because of it. If left untreated, the cancerous cells can spread in the body and cause severe complications. On World Lung Cancer Day, let us learn about how you prevent lung cancer by making some changes to your lifestyle.

What is lung cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs. It occurs when cells in the lung tissue grow uncontrollably and form tumors, interfering with the normal functioning of the lungs. Without timely intervention, lung cancer can affect other parts of the body. There are two main types of lung cancer, says oncologist Dr Raman Narang.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): It makes up about 80-85 percent of all lung cancer cases, as per the American Cancer Society. It includes several subtypes such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): This type is less common but tends to grow and spread more quickly than NSCLC. It is often associated with smoking.

The treatment may depend on the type of lung cancer that has affected you. Your doctor will suggest different treatment strategies and potential outcomes depending on how each type spreads through and progresses in the body, adds Dr Narang.

Symptoms of lung cancer

There are several signs and symptoms of lung cancer that may indicate a problem, as per the data by WHO:

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Cough that does not go away

Lethargy

Hemoptysis or throwing up blood

Unexplained weight loss

Frequent lung infections

Early symptoms of lung cancer may be mild, and it may slowly progress into something serious.

How to prevent lung cancer?

The best way to mitigate the risk of developing lung cancer is to make small changes in your lifestyle and make sure you follow them religiously. Follow these 6 simple ways to prevent lung cancer:

1. Quit smoking

Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer. A study published in the Chinese Medical Journal found that tobacco control is one of the most successful lifestyle measures. It found that eliminating smoking declined lung cancer mortality by 91 percent in men and 82 percent in women.

"The blood pressure and pulse rate decrease, just 20 minutes after you stop smoking. In only 12 hours the blood’s carbon monoxide level returns to normal. Most of those who experience coughing and dyspnea in the first weeks after leaf exposure will have recovered within 9 months. Ten years later, the person's risk of lung cancer is about half that of someone who has continued to smoke," explains Dr Narang.

2. Avoid secondhand smoke

The person smoking is at risk but a person exposed to tobacco is also at risk. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, secondhand smoke can increase the risk of developing lung cancer by 20-30 percent. It was also found that people who do not smoke but are exposed to secondhand smoke inhale cancer-causing substances and poisons. Try to stay away and avoid coming in contact with smoking areas and tell those around you to give up the cigarette.

3. Have a Radon Test on Your Home

Radon is an odorless, radioactive gas present naturally that can accumulate in homes. Outside it is diluted to safe levels, but inside it can accumulate in dangerous amounts (especially in unventilated spaces like basements). Prolonged exposure to Radon can increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon levels in a building can be reduced using various methods, explains Dr Narang.

4. Eat a healthy diet

While there is no specific diet that can reduce the risk of lung cancer eating a balanced diet can help to some level. Eating fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains is good for you. The expert adds that you should eat foods rich in antioxidants and other healthy nutrients that protect the cells from more damage.

5. Exercise regularly

Physical activity is an effective way to keep your overall health in check. Data from the book Physical Activity and Cancer found that exercise may reduce the risk of lung cancer in women by 20-30 percent and 20-50 percent in men. Daily exercise helps boost overall health and reduce the likelihood of lung cancer. 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity or moderate activity can help you keep diseases at bay.

6. Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals

"Avoid occupational hazards as much as possible. Many occupations expose employees to carcinogens like diesel exhaust or asbestos, for instance. Take safety measures and use protective equipment to minimize your contact with these hazardous substances," adds Dr Narang.

7. Avoid an HIV infection

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) occurs when your body is unable to fight foreign pathogens and weakens the immune system. Having HIV may increase your risk of getting lung cancer. A study published in the journal Current Opinions in HIV and AIDS found that having HIV may double the risk of developing lung cancer. So, make sure you are getting tested for HIV regularly and using protection during intercourse.

Following healthy lifestyle habits and staying away from triggers that may cause cancer may help you reduce the risk of lung cancer.