Lung Cancer: Understanding the Disease & Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, yet it is also one of the most preventable and increasingly treatable cancers when detected early.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month, observed every year in November, aims to educate the public, reduce stigma, and promote early diagnosis.

At RAXITH OncoCare – Robotic & Cancer Care Clinic, we believe that awareness saves lives.

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs, interfering with normal breathing and oxygen exchange.

Main Types of Lung Cancer

1. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – most common
   
   

2. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – aggressive but treatment-sensitive
   
   

Early-stage lung cancer may cause minimal or no symptoms, which makes awareness crucial.

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Many patients ignore early warning signs. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent cough
  
  

• Coughing up blood
  
  

• Shortness of breath
  
  

• Chest pain
  
  

• Unexplained weight loss
  
  

• Recurrent chest infections
  
  

• Hoarseness of voice
  
  

• Fatigue
  
  

⚠️ Do not ignore symptoms lasting more than 2–3 weeks.

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

While smoking is the most common cause, lung cancer can occur even in non-smokers.

Major risk factors include:

• Cigarette smoking (active or passive)
  
  

• Tobacco chewing
  
  

• Air pollution
  
  

• Occupational exposure (asbestos, chemicals)
  
  

• Family history of lung cancer
  
  

• Previous lung disease
  
  

🚫 Not all lung cancer patients are smokers — this myth delays diagnosis.

Importance of Early Detection

Early-stage lung cancer has significantly better outcomes.

Screening

• High-risk individuals (long-term smokers, age >50) may benefit from low-dose CT scan screening
  
  

• Early detection allows curative treatment options, including surgery
  
  

Treatment Options for Lung Cancer

Treatment depends on cancer type, stage, and patient fitness.

Modern lung cancer treatment includes:

• Surgery (early-stage, potentially curative)
  
  

• Chemotherapy
  
  

• Radiation therapy
  
  

• Targeted therapy
  
  

• Immunotherapy
  
  

A multidisciplinary approach ensures the best outcomes.

Role of Surgery in Lung Cancer

Surgery plays a crucial role in early and selected locally advanced lung cancers.

Benefits of modern surgical approaches:

• Complete tumor removal
  
  

• Better long-term survival
  
  

• Improved quality of life
  
  

Minimally invasive techniques help reduce recovery time.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month – Why It Matters

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is not just about statistics — it is about people, families, and hope.

The goals of this month are to:

• Promote early symptom recognition
  
  

• Encourage smoking cessation
  
  

• Reduce stigma associated with lung cancer
  
  

• Support patients and survivors
  
  

• Advocate for screening and timely treatment
  
  

🎗️ Awareness leads to action. Action saves lives.

Breaking the Stigma

Lung cancer patients often face blame and guilt due to smoking-related stigma.
Every patient deserves empathy, respect, and the best medical care, regardless of the cause.

Our Message at RAXITH OncoCare

Early diagnosis, correct information, and evidence-based treatment are the strongest weapons against lung cancer.

If you or your loved ones have symptoms, risk factors, or concerns, do not delay consultation.

Need Expert Guidance or Second Opinion?

📲 Book an appointment on WhatsApp
📍 RAXITH OncoCare – Bharath Cancer Hospital, Mysuru

Final Thought

Lung cancer is serious — but it is not hopeless.
With awareness, early detection, and modern treatment, many lives can be saved.