November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, shining a light on the deadliest cancer in the United States. WISH-TV Medical Expert Dr. Janel Gordon provided insight on the risk factors, symptoms, and lifestyle changes to prevent lung cancer. While smoking causes 80-90% of cases, other factors include secondhand smoke, occupational exposure to various chemicals, exposure to radon, and living in areas with high air pollution.
Common symptoms of lung cancer include chronic coughing, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, and coughing up blood. Unfortunately, these symptoms typically do not appear until later stages of the disease. The United States Preventive Task Force recommends annual low-dose CT scans for individuals ages 50-80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history.
Early screening can increase the chance of survival, with a 5-year survival rate of 60% for Stage I cases. To prevent lung cancer, individuals should avoid smoking and consult their doctor for help quitting. Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals should be managed according to workplace policies.
Only 6% of eligible Americans are regularly screened for lung cancer, highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention. By understanding risk factors and symptoms, individuals can take steps to protect themselves from this deadly disease.
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