Lung Cancer Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious cancers worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour.

In its early stages, lung cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. Early detection is important, as treatment is more effective when the condition is identified early.

What Are the Risk Factors for Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer develops when lung cells undergo genetic mutations that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably.

Common risk factors for lung cancer include:

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

What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer symptoms often appear gradually and may be mistaken for other respiratory conditions. Recognising these symptoms early can help with timely diagnosis.

Common symptoms of lung cancer include:

• Persistent cough that does not go away
• Coughing up blood or blood-stained sputum
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Hoarseness or loss of voice

Early vs Late Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Early-stage lung cancer:

• May have no symptoms
• Mild or occasional cough

Advanced-stage lung cancer:

• Persistent or worsening cough
• Chest pain and breathing difficulty
• Weight loss and fatigue
• Coughing up blood

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• A cough lasting more than 2-3 weeks
• Blood in your sputum
• Ongoing chest pain or breathlessness
• Unexplained weight loss 

How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?

Lung cancer is diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests and tissue sampling to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Common diagnostic methods for lung cancer include:

• Chest X-ray to detect abnormalities in the lungs
• CT scan to provide detailed images of lung structures
• Bronchoscopy to examine the airways
• Lung biopsy to confirm whether cancer cells are present

Why Is a Biopsy Important?

A biopsy is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of lung cancer. It allows doctors to determine:

• The type of lung cancer
• The stage of the disease
• The most appropriate treatment approach

What Are the Treatment Options for Lung Cancer?

Treatment for lung cancer depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient.

Common treatment options include:

• Surgery to remove the tumour
• Radiotherapy to destroy cancer cells using radiation
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells with medication
• Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight cancer

How Do Doctors Decide the Best Treatment?

Doctors consider several factors when choosing treatment:

• Stage of the cancer
• Type of lung cancer
• Patient’s overall health
• Whether the cancer has spread

Treatment is often managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early-stage lung cancer is more likely to be treated successfully. Screening methods such as low-dose CT scans may help detect lung cancer in high-risk individuals, especially smokers or former smokers.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospital Penang 

If you are experiencing symptoms of lung cancer or are at higher risk, seek medical advice early. Contact Gleneagles Hospital Penang to learn more about screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.