The importance of early diagnosis in lung cancer: 'Long-lasting cough and shortness of breath should not be neglected'

Chest Diseases Specialist Dr. points out that lung cancer may not show symptoms in the early stages. Funda Karaduman Yalçın stated that persistent cough, bloody sputum, shortness of breath and unexplained weight loss should not be neglected, and said that early diagnosis plays an important role in the success of treatment.

Making a statement within the scope of "November Lung Cancer Awareness Month", Samsun Büyük Anadolu Hospital Chest Diseases Specialist Dr. Funda Karaduman Yalçın stated that lung cancer is among the most common types of cancer worldwide and is one of the main causes of cancer-related deaths. Dr. stated that detecting the disease at an early stage increases treatment options and positively affects treatment success. Yalçın emphasized that awareness of lung cancer should be increased in society.

"THE BIGGEST RISK IS SMOKING"

Stating that the most important risk factor of lung cancer is cigarettes and other tobacco products, Dr. Funda Karaduman Yalçın said that occupational exposure to passive smoking, air pollution, radon gas, asbestos and some chemicals can also increase the risk of contracting the disease. Reminding that non-smokers can also get lung cancer, Dr. Yalçın noted that it is of great importance to never start smoking and for smokers to quit smoking by getting professional support in protecting lung health. He also reminded that citizens who want to quit smoking can get support from the Ministry of Health ALO 171 Smoking Cessation Advisory Line.

"DO NOT NEGLECT LONG LASTING COUGH AND SHORTNESS OF BREATH"

Pointing out that lung cancer may not cause significant complaints, especially in the early stages, Dr. Yalçın stated that symptoms such as cough that does not go away for a long time or becomes increasingly severe, bloody sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain and hoarseness should be taken into consideration. Dr. states that unexplained weight loss, constant fatigue and weakness can also be seen among the symptoms of the disease. Yalçın emphasized that these complaints do not always mean lung cancer, but if they continue, a health institution should be consulted.

"SCREENING IS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE FOR EARLY DIAGNOSIS"

Dr. stated that especially people who have smoked for many years and are in high risk groups should undergo medical evaluation. Funda Karaduman Yalçın said that screening with low-dose computerized lung tomography may be on the agenda for people in the appropriate risk group. Stating that early diagnosis of lung cancer provides significant advantages in the treatment process, Dr. Yalçın called on citizens not to postpone their health checks and not to ignore suspicious symptoms. He pointed out the importance of staying away from smoking, taking precautions against risk factors and having the necessary health checks on time to protect lung health.