Lung cancer is the most common type of cancer in India. People addicted to smoking are at higher risk of lung cancer. The number of cases is expected to rise by the end of 2025. The number of lung cancer cases will be higher between the age group of 60-64 years both in males and females. 

Dr. Umesh Gaikwad is a renowned surgical oncologist in Nagpur and is currently practicing in ProLife Medicare. For the past 7 years, he has been working in this field.

All you need to know about lung cancer

Dr. Umesh Gaikwad says, “Lung cancer is on high rise and we cannot exactly predict the cases, but lung cancer is associated with the following risk factors- 

• Smoking 
• Air pollution

This is an increasing trend in lung cancer. These are avoidable risk factors. Using a mask is helpful to decrease the risk of cancer.”

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Dr. Umesh Gaikwad states, “The main symptoms of lung cancer are as follows- 

• Chronic cough 
• Difficulty in breathing 
• Cough with expectoration
• Cough with blood-hemoptysis 

Haemoptysis is the main concern associated with lung cancer which needs immediate attention. If in the initial screening, there is difficulty in respiration and chronic cough, you need to seek medical help."

Causes of Lung cancer

Dr. Umesh Gaikwad informs, “The causes of lung cancer are multifactorial and related to the following- 

• Smoking cause inflammation of the lungs 

• People working in the mines and petroleum industries may develop lung cancer.”

Treatment for Lung cancer

Dr. Umesh Gaikwad says, “The diagnosis of the case in the initial stages is a must. Based on the staging of the disease, we have to do diagnostic tests for lung cancer. 

• Localized lung cancer- Lobectomy can be done 
• Metastatic lung cancer- Difficult to treat and not completely curable

Initial detection of lung cancer can help in a good treatment approach for the patient. Early diagnosis and treatment are the mainstays for lung cancer. So, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Screening for lung cancer like a CT scan is important at the initial stages. This is available at cost-effective solutions.”

Incidence of lung cancer

Dr. Umesh Gaikwad states, “ The risk factor is important which are as follows-

• High incidence of cigarette smoking, tobacco, and alcohol 
• Familial factors
• Occupational hazards like mine workers.”

Rapid fire 

Is lung cancer hereditary? Dr. Umesh Gaikwad informs, “No exactly hereditary but may have familial traits related to hereditary.”

Is lung cancer completely curable? Dr. Umesh Gaikwad states, “Yes, it is completely curable if diagnosed at early stages and at an appropriate time. Metastasis and advanced stages are not completely curable. ”

Can passive smoking cause lung cancer? Dr Umesh Gaikwad states, “Yes, passive smoking is risky and can cause lung cancer and we need to avoid it as much as we can.”