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Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is cancer that starts in the lungs. There are two main types of lung cancer:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer, which is the most common type of lung cancer
  • Small cell lung cancer, which makes up about 20% of all lung cancers

The following may increase your risk for lung cancer:

  • Secondhand smoke
  • Exposure to asbestos
  • Exposure to cancer-causing chemicals such as uranium, beryllium, vinyl chloride, nickel chromates, coal products, mustard gas, chloromethyl ethers, gasoline, and diesel exhaust
  • Exposure to radon gas
  • Family history of lung cancer
  • High levels of air pollution
  • High levels of arsenic in drinking water
  • Radiation therapy to the lungs

Signs & Symptoms

In its early stages, lung cancer may not cause any symptoms. Symptoms depend on the type of cancer, but can include:

  • Chest pain
  • Persistent cough
  • Coughing up blood
  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing

These symptoms are more likely to occur when lung cancer is in later stages:

  • Bone pain or tenderness
  • Eyelid drooping
  • Facial paralysis
  • Hoarseness or changing voice
  • Joint pain
  • Nail problems
  • Shoulder pain
  • Swallowing difficulty
  • Swelling of the face or arms
  • Weakness

Diagnosis

If lung cancer is suspected, a Deborah physician will perform a physical exam and ask about the patient’s medical history. When listening to the chest with a stethoscope, the physician may hear fluid around the lungs that suggests cancer may be present.

The doctor may order these tests to diagnose lung cancer or see if it has spread:

  • Bone scan
  • Chest x-ray
  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • CT scan of the chest
  • MRI of the chest
  • Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
  • Sputum test to look for cancer cells
  • Thoracentesis
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Should You Be Screened For Lung Cancer?

The recommended screening test for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography, also called a low-dose CT scan. This online risk assessment can help to determine if your family history, lifestyle, and any current symptoms make you an ideal candidate for more thorough screening.

Terms & Conditions

By participating in this quiz, or screening or health assessment, I recognize and accept all risks associated with it. I understand that the program will only screen for certain risk factors and does not constitute a complete physical exam. For the diagnosis of a medical problem, I must see a physician for a complete medical exam. I release Deborah Heart and Lung Center and any other organization(s) involved in this screening, and their employees and agents, from all liabilities, medical claims or expenses which may arise from my participation. Thank you for investing in your health by participating today.