Hoshiarpur- "Lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. In the year 2022, 2.4 million cases were reported. China, the US, Japan and India are among the top 4 countries with the highest cases of lung cancer. India is among the top 4 countries with the highest mortality rate from lung cancer.
"Of all cancer deaths, one in five is due to lung cancer," said Dr. Sonal, Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine, Livasa Hospital. Lung cancer is a type of cancer that usually starts in the lungs in the cells lining the airways. It is one of the most common and deadly types of cancer worldwide, with smoking being the main risk factor for 80% of deaths.
Talking about the symptoms of lung cancer, Dr. Kritharth, Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine, Livasa Hospital, Mohali, said, "Lung cancer often involves persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath and coughing up blood." Early detection is important to improve the chances of successful treatment, although this can be difficult due to the absence of symptoms in the early stages. Screening plays a vital role in early detection of lung cancer.
Dr. Kritharth said that diagnosis and treatment at an early stage can increase life expectancy by 5 years. Early detection through screening is one of the most powerful tools to save lives. Dr. Sonal said that unfortunately, access to these screening programs remains a challenge in many parts of the world.