Can lung cancer be prevented? Identify the risk factors and survival rates

Causes of lung cancer: It is a serious and potentially fatal disease, but the good news is that it can often be prevented by avoiding risk factors such as smoking, pollution, and occupational hazards (Image: Canva)

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, but the good news is that it can often be prevented, especially when people take proactive steps to reduce their exposure to known risk factors.

Prevention and early detection:

Lung cancer is a serious and potentially fatal disease, but the good news is that it can often be prevented by avoiding risk factors such as smoking, pollution, and occupational hazards. Furthermore, regular screenings for high-risk individuals can help detect the disease early, increasing the chances of successful treatment, explains Dr Aditya Vidushi, Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, Delhi, "Prevention and early detection remain the most powerful tools in the fight against lung cancer. A proactive approach can make all the difference in saving lives," he says.

Also read | Understanding lung cancer beyond smoking: It’s not just about cigarettes anymore

Dr Vidushi suggests the following strategies to prevent lung cancer:

• Quit smoking: Tobacco smoking in any form, be it cigarettes, bidis, or cigars, is the leading cause of lung cancer. Smokers are 20 times more likely to develop lung cancer compared to non-smokers. The best way to lower your risk is to quit smoking. Quitting smoking is the single most effective way to reduce the risk of lung cancer. Even for long-term smokers, quitting can significantly lower the chances of developing the disease, and the earlier you quit, the better the outcomes.

• Avoid secondhand smoke: Secondhand smoke, or passive smoking, is another major risk factor for lung cancer. Non-smokers who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke in public places, at home, or in the workplace face an increased risk. To protect yourself and others, encourage smoke-free environments wherever you are.

• Limit exposure to air pollution: Air pollution is a growing global concern and a known contributor to lung cancer. Exposure to pollutants such as car exhaust fumes, industrial emissions, and particulate matter can increase the risk of lung cancer. Measures to mitigate environmental pollution include regulating emissions, using air purifiers at home, and wearing masks during days with poor air quality. Avoiding areas with high traffic congestion can also help reduce exposure.

• Prevent occupational exposure: Certain occupations carry an increased risk for lung cancer due to exposure to hazardous substances like asbestos, arsenic, nickel, and chromium. Workers in industries such as construction, mining, and manufacturing are particularly vulnerable. Employers should implement stringent safety protocols and provide protective gear to minimise exposure. Workers should also take advantage of regular health screenings.

• Lung cancer screening for those at high-risk: For those at high risk, such as long-term smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer, screening with a Low-Dose CT (LDCT) scan can help detect the disease at an early stage. Early detection is critical, as it allows for more effective treatment and better outcomes. The scan can spot small tumors before they become symptomatic or advance to more dangerous stages.

Lung cancer survival rates vary widely depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed. When detected early, survival rates can be significantly higher. The 5-year survival rate for stage 1 and 2 lung cancer can range from 60-80 percent, thanks to early intervention and treatment. However, for stage 4 lung cancer, the survival rate drops dramatically, to just 6-8 percent. This stark contrast underscores the importance of prevention, early detection, and timely treatment.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis