Lung cancer is a leading cause of death globally. It is also a major healthcare concern in India, accounting for 5.9 per cent of all cancers and 8.1 per cent of all cancer-related deaths, according to a study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology. According to Dr KVVR Lakshmi, MD & Sr Consultant Biochemistry, TRUSTlab Diagnostics, the key to surviving lung cancer is catching it in its earliest stages when it is most treatable. "Early detection is very crucial since patients who have small early-stage lung cancer have a cure rate as high as 80 to 90 per cent. The main benefit of early screening is to lower the chance of dying from lung cancer, which accounts for many deaths in people who currently smoke or formerly smoked," Dr Lakshmi said. Here are some tests that help detect lung cancer in early stages, according to the expert. "Screening with Low Dose CT (LDCT) and Chest X-rays are the most recommended screening test for early detection of lung cancers, especially in people who are active smokers or have a history of smoking," Dr Lakshmi noted. However, she said that while these screening tests are effective, they may not detect all lung cancers, and not all of the cancers that are detected will be in the early stage. Additionally, the expert said that routine blood tests may not detect lung cancer but may be used to identify genetic mutations in people who are already known to have lung cancer. The most common genetic changes that are tested in lung cancer are in the genes EGFR, KRAS and ALK. For a definitive diagnosis, tumour markers play an important part. These are found in tumour tissues, and are obtained by a common tool called biopsy. While there are no ideal tumour markers for identifying patients suspected of having lung cancer, they can show considerable sensitivity in suspected cases. The five lung cancer tumours markers are Pro-gastrin releasing peptides (PGRP), Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE), Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA), Soluble fragments of cytokeratin 19 (CyFRA 21-1) and Carcinoma embryonic antigen (CEA). How to prevent lung cancer Dr Lakshmi highlighted the importance of healthy habits in preventing lung cancer. "These include no smoking, avoiding second-hand smoke, lower exposure to workplace risk factors, and maintaining a proper weight by doing exercise or yoga regularly." Citing that cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer, she said that 1/3 to 1/2 of all cancers can be prevented by abiding by certain daily habits. "The best activities for lung health are aerobic activities like walking, running, or jumping rope that give your heart and lungs the kind of workout they need to function efficiently," she said. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
