The theme for World Lung Cancer Day 2020 is I Can and I Will. ZenOnco.io stands side by side with reputed institutions that are doing phenomenal work in the field of lung cancer, such as:
- The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST)
- Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS)
- International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC)
We envisage a world free from Lung Cancer. It surely motivates to know that Lung Cancer can be prevented. We will see ahead how we can prevent Lung Cancer.
First, let us explore why Lung Cancer day is of utmost importance today. Lung cancer was a rare phenomenon in the early 20th century. With increased smoking, Lung Cancer cases grew steadily.
Today, this preventable disease has become the most common cancer type (parallel to breast cancer) across the globe. Below are some facts on why it needs more public awareness:
- 12.8% cancer cases occur in the lungs
- 17.8% of cancer mortalities occur due to lung cancer
A lot of research has been done in the last decade on Lung Cancer. Their results have generated a lot of positivity in those affected by it. Several groundbreaking research in the last decade has generated positivity in those affected by Lung Cancer.
World Lung Cancer Day Causes and Symptoms of Lung Cancer
World Lung Cancer day is celebrated on the 1st day of August every year. It intends to inspire, support and direct those living with it, to lead a life filled with hope and positivity.
ZenOnco.io is committed to supporting all cancer recovery and healing. Therefore, on this World Lung Cancer day, we have taken it upon us to share as much as awareness of Lung Cancer that we can.
It is needless to say that Lung Cancer begins in the lungs. Let us explore what causes it.
Causes:
- Smoking
Epidemiologic case-control studies done in the 1950s showed a b correlation between Lung Cancer and smoking. In 1962 it was founded that smoking causes Lung Cancer. 94% of this cancer type is caused due to smoking. A smoker is at 24 to 36 times greater risk than her / his non-smoking counterpart.
According to lung.org, smoking is a main cause of Lung Cancer. It contributes to 80% of this disease in women and 90% in men. A recent publication in American Cancer Society journal showed the following results:
- Smokers having < 15 pack year history had a longer median survival than those with > 15 pack years.
- Increase in the number of pack years decrease median overall survival.
- Passive Smoking
Smoking in the passive form is also believed to be harmful. Passive smoking increases Lung Cancer risk to 20-30%. A study published in Ann Oncol gives special attention to women at home who are continuously passive smoking. The research confirms that there is a dire need to raise awareness to prevent smoking as we speak.
- Toxic Substances
Exposure to certain chemical toxicity can cause Lung Cancer. These include hazardous substances such as radon, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel, uranium, and some petroleum products.
- Family History
Those with a first-degree relative having Lung Cancer are at double risk to be affected by lung cancer2. Several other studies also support that genetic history is an influential factor.
- Genetic Mutations
Genetic mutations also trigger lung cancer, especially if the person is prone to smoking. Even exposure to other carcinogens increases the risks.
Symptoms:
Some commonly known symptoms of Lung Cancer are:
- Chronic cough
- Blood or phlegm in cough
- Chest Pain that shoots up while deep breathing, laughing or coughing
- Increasing hoarseness in voice
- Breathlessness
- Wheezing
- Easily getting weak or fatigued
- Appetite and weight loss
Recurring respiratory diseases like pneumonia or bronchitis may also be a Lung Cancer symptom.
Need for Awareness of Smoking on this World Lung Cancer Day
World Lung Cancer day engulfs these dark facts with great hope because this is a preventable disease. Lesser exposure to smoking and industrial hazards can positively reduce susceptibility.
ZenOnco.io promotes the awareness of Lung Cancer especially caused by smoking. Smokers do not just endanger themselves, but also those around them.
According to a recent news report, cigarette consumption shot up during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts say that this rise in smoking could be due to stress, unemployment and boredom.
Due to such alarming issues, ZenOnco.io extends its support to all those fighting for the cause of non-smoking, quitting Tobacco and healthier environment. We promote healthy living conditions, where humankind can thrive without threats to Lung Cancer.
We further motivate people to quit smoking. To all those who are struggling to quit tobacco, remember I Can and I Will. You have it in you.
Finally, we invite all those who are journeying with the disease or have journeyed with it in the past, to share their stories with us. Check out our cancer healing stories here. You can also get insights from best personalities associated with cancer through our weekly Healing Circle Talks that is conducted live every Sunday it is also a platform for all cancer warriors and supporters to voice their thoughts and feelings, and connect with like-minded individuals.
