Lung cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths across India. The disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only in the advanced stages. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in one or both lungs.
The major cause is tobacco smoking, including passive smoke exposure, but it can also result from air pollution, genetic factors, and long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos or radon.
Every year, World Lung Cancer Day is observed on August 1 around the globe, to raise awareness about lung cancer, and not only how it affects people but also why research is important. While that is ongoing, a lot can be done before hand, especially when diagnosed early, lung cancer is not only treatable but also curable. Doctors in Mumbai are urging people to be proactive about screenings and symptom awareness.
They say the symptoms seen during advanced stages can be a persistent cough, chest pain, breathlessness, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, or coughing up blood. “Early-stage lung cancer often has no visible symptoms, making regular screening crucial for high-risk groups such as smokers or people with a family history. Over 50 per cent of lung cancer cases are detected at advanced stages, leading to delayed treatment and higher risks of complications and mortality. There should be awareness regarding timely testing among individuals,” says Dr Upasana Garg, regional technical chief, Apollo Diagnostics in Andheri East.
Dr Garg adds, “Low-dose CT (LDCT) scans are the most effective tool for detecting lung cancer at an early stage, when treatment options are more effective and survival rates are higher. Some other tests like chest X-rays, sputum cytology, and biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the stage. Treatment for lung cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and preventive health check-ups are the key pillars of lung cancer control.”
Dr Supriya Bambarkar, senior consultant oncosurgeon at AIMS Hospital in Dombivli reassures that lung cancer is no longer a death sentence, especially when caught and managed early. She explains, “The focus should be on early detection and personalised treatment plans that increase survival and improve quality of life. Since more than 50 per cent of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, it results in delayed treatment and increased mortality risk. In just two months, 5 out of 10 patients aged 25 -75 presented with late-stage symptoms like persistent cough or breathlessness, requiring urgent medical intervention.”
Lung cancer treatment depends on the stage and may consist of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. “Timely diagnosis can greatly improve outcomes. Lung cancer can lead to complications like breathlessness, infections, fluid buildup, and spread to other organs if not treated early. Regular follow-ups and lifestyle changes, smoking cessation therapy, and a healthy diet play a pivotal role in recovery. Be aware when it comes to lung health,” concludes Dr Bambarkar.
