Getting diagnosed with cancer is disheartening, not only for the patient but for his/her entire family. Recent statistics show an alarming growth in cancer patients. Deaths because of cancer have also increased substantially. But chances of survival will significantly increase if the cancer is detected in its early stages. This blog will tell you everything you should know about the growth, diagnosis, and the potential spread of lung cancer.
Growth of lung cancer
Smokers are believed to be more prone to lung cancer than non-smokers. About 25% of the non-smoking population has been diagnosed with lung cancer. It isn't easy to ascertain the underlying causes in the latter case.
According to the best lung cancer doctor in Delhi NCR, it can progress at varying speeds. Early detection is almost impossible for cancers growing at a rapid pace. Scientists are yet to discover reliable tests that can measure the growth rate or the starting point of lung cancer in the human body. There are two types of lung cancer:
1. Non-small cell lung cancer- This type of lung cancer is typical in smokers as well as non-smokers. It has a much slower rate of growth compared to small cell lung cancer. Adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma are three primary variations of non-small lung cancer. Each variation has a different size, and their growth rates differ. Out of these three, large cell carcinoma grows the fastest.
2. Small cell lung cancer- This type of cancer is rare and accounts for 15% of total lung cancer cases. In most cases, this type of lung cancer will have reached the last stages by the time it is diagnosed. It proliferates rapidly.
How does lung cancer spread?
Like other types of cancers, lung cancer also has various stages. The best oncologist in Delhi NCR can accurately tell you the stage of lung cancer development. During the first stage, a mass of cells develop abnormal properties and start multiplying uncontrollably. A single cancer cell needs to multiply at least 30 times to become a tumor about 1 cm long. For cancer to be visible on an X-ray, it should be at least 1 cm or half an inch long.
On an average, lung cancers can double in size in a span of three to six months. However, it can also take years for lung cancer to grow and finally be detected in the chest x-ray.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer
Both small cell and non-small lung cancer have similar symptoms. A cancer specialist in Delhi has listed some of them. They include
Wheezing.
Loss of appetite.
Weight loss.
Coughing up blood or phlegm.
Worsening or lingering cough.
Experiencing chest pains while breathing, laughing, and coughing.
Shortness of breath.
Fatigue.
Hoarseness.
The Best Cure
Dr. Manish Singhal is an esteemed cancer specialist and oncologist in Noida. He has treated a lot of lung cancer patients in the past. You should consult him if you are looking for the best treatment for lung cancer in Noida.