Lung Cancer Doesn't Speak - Regular Check-ups for High-Risk Individuals Are Vital!

Lung Cancer Doesn't Speak - Regular Check-ups for High-Risk Individuals Are Vital!

Do you think that persistent coughing, a raspy voice, and wheezing are just signs of a cold? If you start coughing up blood, experiencing chest pain, or rapidly losing weight, you might already be in the late stages of lung cancer.

This isn’t to scare you, but to highlight that early-stage lung cancer often has no symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have already spread, making early detection crucial.

Who Needs Early Detection?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat, a consultant in respiratory and internal medicine at Gleneagles Hospital Johor, emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and preventive measures for high-risk groups. These groups include:

Smokers and passive smokers
Those with a family history of lung cancer
People exposed to harmful environments, such as sponge factories, chemical plants, woodworking, petroleum-related jobs, and cooking with charcoal

The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals aged 50 to 80 with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years undergo annual CT scans to detect tumors early.

Common Questions About Lung Cancer

What does 20 pack-years mean?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: Pack-years refer to the number of packs smoked per day multiplied by the number of years of smoking. For example, 20 pack-years means smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years.

How can I prevent lung cancer?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: Quit smoking immediately to reduce your own risk and protect your family from secondhand smoke. If you work in a high-risk environment, follow safety guidelines to minimize exposure to hazards.

What are the treatment options if diagnosed with lung cancer?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: Treatment depends on the type, size, stage, and spread of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Options include radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Can I take nutritional supplements during treatment?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: Consult your doctor or nutritionist before taking supplements, as some may interfere with treatment. The best approach is a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and support from family and friends.

Do all smokers develop lung cancer?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: Not all smokers get lung cancer, but 90% of male lung cancer patients in Malaysia are smokers. The number of female patients is increasing, mostly due to secondhand smoke and occupational hazards.

Does having had COVID-19 pneumonia increase the risk of lung cancer?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: Viral infections like COVID-19 are not directly related to lung cancer, but those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at higher risk.

Is lung cancer only common among the elderly?

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat: While the incidence increases with age, lung cancer can affect those aged 45 and above, with a peak between 60 and 74 years old.

Dr. Chin Ka Kiat stresses that prevention is better than treatment. High-risk individuals should have annual check-ups to catch any issues early.

So, are you ready to quit smoking? Your health is worth it.