Projections by Cancer Research UK suggest that for the first time this year, the number of lung cancer diagnoses in women will exceed those in men. In light of this alarming trend, the charity is urging women to be as vigilant for symptoms of lung cancer as they are for breast cancer. According to their analysis, there are expected to be 27,332 cases of lung cancer among women in the UK in 2022, compared to 27,172 cases among men. The gap between male and female diagnoses is expected to continue widening until at least 2040.
Survival rates for lung cancer are lower than for other cancers, as symptoms are often not noticeable until the disease has spread. Some common symptoms include a persistent cough, breathlessness, and loss of consciousness. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the UK, claiming the lives of over 34,000 people annually.
The disparity in lung cancer diagnoses between men and women is mainly attributed to historical differences in smoking prevalence. Rates of smoking among men peaked earlier than in women, resulting in a decline in lung cancer incidence among men before women. However, the proportion of female smokers caught up to that of male smokers in the 80s and 90s.
Cancer Research UK’s prevention policy manager, Alizée Froguel, emphasizes the need for increased funding for public health campaigns and support services to help people quit smoking. Without these resources, it will be challenging to prevent lung cancer and save lives.
In a positive development, the government’s recent announcement of a national lung cancer screening program is expected to detect cancer earlier in up to 9,000 individuals each year, improving their chances of survival. Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, accounting for more than 70% of cases. However, it’s important to note that even non-smokers can develop lung cancer, primarily affecting older individuals.
There are two main forms of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is the more common and less aggressive type, accounting for 80% of cases. SCLC is highly aggressive and spreads quickly, resulting in lower survival rates.
Paula Chadwick, the chief executive of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, urges women to be vigilant and emphasizes the need for awareness and regular screening for lung cancer, just as they prioritize breast cancer screenings.
Lung cancer is a serious condition with no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Some signs to watch out for include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, breathlessness, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and chest pain or discomfort. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.
Treatment for lung cancer depends on factors such as the type and stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Options may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes for individuals with lung cancer.
Source: NHS
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