DEBUNK 6 COMMON MYTHS ABOUT LUNG CANCER

Nov 18 , 2022 | 2 min read

Cancer is one of the most common types and is one of the leading causes of death. Despite this, there are many myths and misconceptions about the disease. Let's explore 6 of the most common myths about lung cancer and what they mean for you.

Myth #1: Only smokers get lung cancer

Though smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, it's not the only one. It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and other environmental and occupational toxins. Even if you've never smoked a day, you may still be at risk for lung cancer if exposed to these carcinogens. Therefore be aware of the risks and get regular lung cancer screenings, even if you don't smoke.

Myth #2: If you quit smoking, you're cured

Lung cancer is not something that you can cure by simply quitting smoking. Lung cancer can develop years after someone has quit smoking. While quitting smoking is certainly the best thing you can do for your lungs, it doesn't mean you're automatically cured of lung cancer.

Myth #3: There's no point in quitting smoking if you already have lung cancer

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and quitting smoking can reduce your risk of developing the disease or dying from it. Even if you've been smoking for many years, quitting smoking can still help improve your health and lengthen your life. If you have lung cancer and continue to smoke, you're more likely to develop problems such as pneumonia and respiratory failure. Quitting smoking can also help relieve symptoms and make treatment more effective. So if you've been diagnosed with lung cancer, don't despair—quit smoking for your health. Talk to a specialist about ways to help you quit, including medication and counselling.

Myth #4: All lung cancer is fatal

Lung cancer is often fatal and is one of the most deadly cancers. However, this does not mean that all lung cancer is fatal. But not all types of lung cancer are fatal, and many treatment options are available. Two main types of lung cancer are small-cell lung cancer and non-small-cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer is the more aggressive type, and it is more likely to be fatal. Non-small cell lung cancer is less aggressive and has a better prognosis. In addition, there are many different stages of lung cancer. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better the prognosis. Stage I lung cancer has a five-year survival rate of approximately 60%. Approximately 60% of people with Stage I lung cancer will survive for at least five years after diagnosis. The survival rate decreases as the stage increases, but even people with Stage IV lung cancer have a five-year survival rate of approximately 10%. Talk to a doctor about the best treatment options if someone you know is diagnosed with lung cancer. Myth #5: Chemotherapy is the only effective treatment for lung cancer Chemotherapy is not the only treatment for lung cancer. Other effective treatments are available, including surgery, radiation, and targeted therapies. Myth #6: Surgery is the only way to treat lung cancer Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers, yet many myths exist. One myth is that surgery is the only way to treat lung cancer. While surgery can be an effective treatment option, it is not the only option. Other treatment options for lung cancer include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. These treatments can be used alone or in combination with other modalities to treat lung cancer. Image byFreepik