Beware of the early symptoms of lung cancer and how to prevent it

At present, lung cancer ranks first among malignant tumors in China, with about 781,000 cases each year. Its morbidity and mortality rates remain high, posing a serious threat to human health. Under such circumstances, actively advocating the prevention of lung cancer and promoting early detection, early diagnosis and early treatment are key steps to reduce the morbidity and mortality of lung cancer and improve the quality of life of patients.

1. Be alert to the early symptoms of lung cancer

Symptom 1: Long-term cough

Cough is the most common symptom of early lung cancer, often paroxysmal choking cough or high-pitched obstructive cough. Many patients often mistakenly think that cough is a simple cold and do not take it seriously, but they do not know that it is a "warning" for early lung cancer. If the patient's cough lasts for more than three weeks, he must seek medical attention in time and pay attention to lung cancer screening.

Symptom 2: Hemoptysis or rust-colored sputum

The sputum may contain blood intermittently or continuously, the amount may be more or less, and the color may be bright or dark.

Symptom 3: Chest tightness and chest pain

Different degrees of chest tightness and chest pain, often aggravated by deep breathing and coughing.

Symptom 4: Recurrent fever

Tumor tissue necrosis can cause fever, and most fevers are caused by obstructive pneumonia caused by the tumor.

Symptom 5: Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained significant weight loss may be a sign of cancer. Tumor necrosis factor in cancer patients consumes a large amount of nutrients, leading to extreme weight loss, anemia, fatigue, difficulty in movement, and even complete bedriddenness, accompanied by organ failure.

2. Causes of lung cancer

1. Smoking and tobacco exposure

Smoking is the primary cause of the increasing lung cancer mortality rate year by year. Nicotine, nitrosamines, benzopyrene and a small amount of radioactive elements such as polonium in smoke are all carcinogenic. The earlier you smoke and the more you smoke, the higher your risk of lung cancer. Passive smoking is also one of the causes of lung cancer. If your spouse is a smoker, the longer you live with your spouse, the greater the possibility of lung cancer.

2. Air pollution

Coal, oil, etc. produce a large amount of carcinogens after burning, which are released into the air, causing air pollution. Humans may develop lung cancer after breathing. Industrially developed countries have a higher incidence of lung cancer, and the incidence of lung cancer is higher in cities than in rural areas with fresh air.

3. Occupational reasons

Due to work needs, some occupations may be exposed to some carcinogens for a long time, such as asbestos, oil, asphalt, radioactive substances, ionizing radiation, etc. These factors will increase the risk of lung cancer.

4. Other related risk factors

Poor diet, depressed emotions, family genetics, etc. are all risk factors for lung cancer.

3. To prevent lung cancer, remember these points

1) Quit smoking: The earlier you quit smoking, the lower the incidence of lung cancer.

2) Occupational protection: reduce contact with carcinogens, ventilate the room frequently, wear a mask or protective mask when working, and reduce the inhalation of harmful substances.

3) Protect the environment: Take care of the environment, reduce air pollution, and prevent the occurrence of lung cancer.

4) Eat healthy and regulate your emotions: Develop a good diet awareness, reduce the intake of preserved foods, and eat more green fruits and vegetables. In terms of spirit, maintain an optimistic and positive attitude, exercise appropriately, and strengthen your body.