Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one the most common cancers in the world and is the most lethal cancer in Malaysia after breast cancer. Lung cancer is the abnormal growth of lung cells that results in a malignant tumour.

Lung cancer may not cause any signs and symptoms in the early stages. Early detection can help improve the survival rate of individuals afflicted with lung cancer.

What Are the Risk Factors for Lung Cancer?

• Smoking
• Exposure to second-hand smoke
• Family history of lung cancer
• Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens
• Exposure to air pollution

What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

• Persistent coughing
• Bloody sputum
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Voice hoarseness or loss of voice

How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?

• Detecting a lung mass on the chest X-ray
• CT scan
• Bronchoscopy
• Lung biopsy
  

If you experience symptoms of lung cancer, the doctor can request for imaging tests for your lungs that include chest X-ray and CT scan. A biopsy is done by aspiration with a needle through bronchoscopy or a needle through the chest wall.

What Are the Treatment Options for Lung Cancer?

Treatment of lung cancer depends on the type and extent of the disease and can include:

• Surgery
• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy