This year, lung cancer will claim the lives of nearly 160,000 Americans. As the nation’s leading cause of cancer-related death, it’s responsible for more deaths than breast, prostate and colon cancers combined. As with many forms of cancer, early detection is key to survival. Screening for lung cancer with serial low-dose CT (available at select imaging centers) has been demonstrated to reduce lung cancer mortality. Coughing, wheezing, hoarseness and fatigue are just some of the symptoms that are often confused with less serious conditions.
Smoking is a major contributor, but you can develop lung cancer even if you don’t smoke. Most lung cancer shows no symptoms until it has already spread to other organs. Lung cancer treatment may include surgery, radiation treatments, or chemotherapy. Discuss lung cancer risks and any symptoms with your doctor and ask about screening and treatment options.
Find easy-to-understand information about lung cancer and lung cancer screening here
