Lung cancer is one of the common types of cancer in the Philippines, with a high mortality rate. That’s why Lung Cancer Awareness Month is commemorated every November to bring attention to the preventive measures and symptoms to watch out for.
Early detection is crucial for lung cancer. Make sure to get checked once experiencing the following symptoms:
- Severe coughing
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Fatigue
- Constant chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Recurring lung infections
- Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
If there’s any suspicion of lung cancer, you can undergo these tests:
- Chest CT scan for high-risk individuals
- Sputum Cytology (phlegm is tested for cancer cells)
- Tissue samples or biopsy
Prevention is better than cure. Here’s how you can help protect yourself from the disease:
- Quit or avoid smoking
- Avoid secondhand smoke
- Avoid radon, a colorless gas found in soil that may seep into households. Testing kits are available to check for radon exposure.
- Avoid carcinogens such as asbestos, uranium, some petroleum, and more.
- Observe a healthy diet and exercise regularly
Sources: radiologyinfo.org; themedicalcity.com; mayoclinic.org
Keep these symptoms and prevention measures in mind to stay fit, healthy, and lung cancer-free. Preventive care like regular check-ups and annual screenings can also help detect the early stages of lung cancer and other diseases.
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