November: Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November is dedicated to Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to enhance awareness and improve initiatives surrounding lung cancer. Survivors, caregivers, and families of those affected by lung cancer are encouraged to share their experiences to help raise understanding of the disease.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is the foremost cause of cancer-related deaths, representing 27% of all cancer fatalities. The lungs play a crucial role in the respiratory system by facilitating the intake of oxygen during inhalation and expelling carbon dioxide during exhalation.

This type of cancer initiates in the lung cells, forming a malignant tumor that can invade and damage adjacent tissues. Non-cancerous tumors, known as hamartoma or papilloma tumors, can also form in the lungs.

A malignant tumor has the potential to spread cancer cells to other regions of the body. Metastatic lung cancer occurs when cancer originates in another part of the body and then spreads to the lungs. Conversely, cancer that starts in the lungs is referred to as primary lung cancer.

Types of Primary Lung Cancer

There are two primary types of lung cancer:

  • Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This type arises from the glandular tissue located on the outer sections of the lungs.
  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This variant begins in the cells lining the bronchi, which are found at the center of the lungs.

Smoking and Lung Cancer

Smoking remains the leading risk factor for lung cancer. Tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, contain harmful chemicals that can severely damage lung tissue. Over time, these toxic substances accumulate, increasing the likelihood of developing cancerous tumors. Additionally, exposure to second-hand smoke poses a significant risk for lung cancer, although the disease can also occur in non-smokers.

Latest Research on Lung Cancer

1. Mediterranean Diet and Lung Cancer Risk

Diet is another factor that may influence the risk of lung cancer. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, olive oil, herbs, and moderate red wine consumption, has been studied for its potential protective effects against lung cancer. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition explored the connection between adherence to this diet and lung cancer risk. Read more to discover whether the Mediterranean diet can lower your risk of lung cancer.

2. Pembrolizumab with Chemotherapy Improves Survival

Non-small cell lung cancer, the most prevalent type, accounts for 85% of all lung cancer cases and predominantly affects current or former smokers. Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine examined the efficacy of pembrolizumab, an immunotherapy agent, in conjunction with chemotherapy for treating lung cancer. This study assessed the safety and effectiveness of this combined treatment approach. Click here to learn more about the findings.

3. Body Mass Index and Lung Cancer Risk

Body Mass Index (BMI), a measurement that assesses body fat based on an individual’s weight and height, has been linked to various health risks, including cancer. Obesity, indicated by a high BMI, is a known risk factor for several cancers, including lung cancer. A study published in BMC Cancer investigated the relationship between BMI and lung cancer risk. Click here to find out if obesity contributes to lung cancer susceptibility.

Conclusion

For further insights into the latest lung cancer research, click here.

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