Lung Cancer - Infographic

Lung cancer, also known as lung carcinoma, is a malignant lung tumor characterized by uncontrolled cell growth in tissues of the lung. The two main types of lung cancer are small cell type (10-15%) and non- small cell type (85-90%). The most common symptoms are coughing (including coughing up blood), weight loss, shortness of breath, and chest pains. Risk factors include a combination of genetic factors and exposure to radon gas, asbestos, smoking, second-hand smoke, air pollution.

The vast majority (87%) cases of lung cancer are due to long-term tobacco smoking. World Health Organization attributes 1.59 million deaths every year globally to lung cancer. The Global Burden of Disease Project attributed an estimated 3.2 million deaths worldwide to air pollution, including 223,000 deaths to lung cancer. Hungary had the highest rate of lung cancer in 2012.

The major way to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking. Smoking in public areas such as restaurants and workplaces should be banned. Avoid exposure to second hand smoke. There should be a total ban on tobacco and its products. Lung cancer is controlled by including a healthy diet by adding more vegetables and fruits; exercising regularly for 150 minutes a week; protecting against exposure to toxic chemicals like radon gas, diesel exhaust and asbestos.