World Lung Cancer Day: It's Time to Raise Awareness

Highlights:

World Lung Cancer Day is observed on August 1 to raise awareness about lung cancer and its impact on individuals and communities worldwide
It is important to educate people about the risk factors, early detection, and preventive measures associated with lung cancer
This can be done by spreading knowledge to reduce the burden of lung cancer and improve the quality of life for those affected

World Lung Cancer Day is celebrated on August 1 every year to create awareness, educate people about lung cancer, focus more on lung cancer research, and arrange financial and moral support for it ().

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‘Breathing life into lung cancer awareness this #WorldLungCancerDay2023 #RaiseAwareness’

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer accounts for one of the most prevalent malignancies in the world, accounting for 18 lakh deaths worldwide, or 20% of all cancer-related deaths. It is also one of the most prevalent cancers among men in poorer nations.

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs and most frequently affects smokers (both active smokers and passive smokers, although it can also affect individuals who have never smoked.

In its early stages, lung cancer frequently shows no signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer often appear when the condition is advanced.

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History of Lung Cancer Day

In 2012, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies, along with the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer and the American College of Chest Physicians, launched a campaign to raise awareness of lung cancer and related issues. The World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) is the most well-known group in the world that focuses primarily on issues relating to lung cancer and spreading awareness of it ().

The goal of the campaign is to educate people on how to deal with the challenges associated with lung cancer, both for those who have recovered from the disease and for those who have been diagnosed with it. The major goal was to inform the public about the primary causes of lung cancer and its preventative strategies.

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Risk Factors of Lung Cancer

Smoking
Exposure to radiation therapy
Family history
Old age Obesity
Alcohol abuse
Viral infections (HPV)

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Lung cancer can be diagnosed only in the advanced stages of the disease. Therefore, early screening is recommended for a better prognosis.

Common Symptoms and Signs of Lung Cancer

Some common symptoms of lung cancer include:

Persistent cough that worsens over time
Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
Shortness of breath or wheezing
Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
Hoarseness or other changes in voice
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Recurrent infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia

It’s important to note that some people with lung cancer may not experience any symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular screenings are recommended for those at high risk.

References:

World Lung Cancer Day - (https://www.lung.org/lung-force/about-lung-force/featured-campaigns/world-lung-cancer-day)
World Lung Cancer Day: Awareness - (https://www.msms.org/About-MSMS/News-Media/world-lung-cancer-day-awareness)

Source-Medindia