Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death all over the globe. It is characterized by an abnormal growth of cells in the lungs. It is most commonly prevalent in people who are excessively exposed to tobacco and smoking. The chances of lung cancer are higher in people who are avid smokers and have smoked for a significant period in their lives. However, it can also happen to non-smokers who have never even touched a cigarette. The cause of lung cancer therefore varies. Early treatment for lung cancer can help cure it, but if the disease progresses without care, it can lead to serious health hazards and in most cases even death.
Importance of Early Screening for Lung Cancer
For individuals at higher risk of developing lung cancer, such as long-term smokers or those with environmental exposure, early screening is essential. Utilizing advanced lung imaging tests can significantly improve the chances of detecting abnormalities before symptoms become severe, allowing for earlier treatment and better outcomes.
Types of Lung Cancer
There are two main types of lung cancer that can help medical experts determine the right course of treatment for the patient. These include
- Small cell lung cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
People who are avid smokers are more prone to small-cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer is rarely present in people compared to non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer includes all the other types of lung cancers as well, such as squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. It can happen to anyone, even those people who have never smoked or have been exposed to tobacco.
Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The most common symptom of lung cancer is shortness of breath. In some cases, patients report that they feel pressure in their lungs when breathing. In other cases, if the disease worsens, respiratory failure is most likely expected.
Another common symptom of lung cancer is a persistent cough. While coughing can be a symptom of many other conditions as well, it can also very likely indicate lung cancer if it does not go away on its own.
In addition, chest pain is also commonly reported by lung cancer patients. Therefore, feeling tightness or pressure in the chest could also be an alarming sign of lung cancer. Other symptoms experienced at the initial stage include wheezing, hoarseness, and coughing up blood.
How to detect lung cancer?
The detection and diagnosis of lung cancer requires a series of imaging tests and scans. The most common imaging tests include:
CT Scan: It is one of the key diagnostic tools used for the detection of lung cancer. It uses the latest imaging technology to get pictures of the lung which are then converted to 3D-modeled images using computer software. A CT scan can detect even the most minor of tumors in the lungs which can help in early detection. CT scans can detect all types of cancer including esophageal cancer, spinal tumor, brain tumor, etc.
Chest X-ray Scan: A Chest X-ray scan is also another commonly used image screening method. It uses x-ray technology to capture images of the chest that could identify the presence of cancerous tumors. However, a chest x-ray scan cannot detect smaller tumors like a CT scan can.
MRI Scan: An MRI Scan is also a diagnostic procedure that uses imaging techniques for the detection of tumors. However, it is particularly used to assess if the lung cancer has spread to other organs as well. This means it can detect spinal tumors, brain tumors, and liver tumors as well.
Biopsy for Early Detection
A Biopsy is one of the leading diagnostic procedures used for the early detection of lung cancer. It mainly involves taking a sample of the lung tissue by inserting a needle into the skin. This lung tissue is then thoroughly examined in the lab to identify the presence of cancerous cells.
Many patients turn to trusted diagnostic centers like Viascan for early detection services such as CT lung scans, offering access to low-dose imaging that can help identify cancer in its early stages.
CONCLUSION
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality around the globe. Its early detection can help guarantee a positive prognosis of treatment. Imaging techniques such as CT Scan and Chest X-ray Scan are commonly used to detect cancer in the lungs. However, if it spreads to other organs and results in a spinal tumor, liver tumor, etc., an MRI Scan is conducted to identify this transmission. To get the best lung scans near me, Via Body Scan Labs is the optimal choice.
