LUNG-CANCER,-SIDE-EFFECTS-OF-SOME-METHODS-OF-CURE: (PART 3) (CONCLUDING PART)

LUNG-CANCER, SIDE EFFECTS OF SOME METHODS OF CURE:

(PART 3) (CONCLUDING PART)

Dave Ikiedei Asei

11/02/2023

In the last article, we have defined Lung cancer as a type of cancer that starts in the lungs and the primary causes of lung cancer as tobacco smoke, which contains numerous harmful chemicals that can damage the DNA of lung cells and cause mutations. 

We also took a look at some of the treatments of lung cancer. Today we shall continue with more of the treatment of lung cancer. It is very important that you know more about this very important organ in our bodies to enable us take precautionary measures against suffering from lung cancer.

RISK FACTORS FOR LING CANCER OPERATIONS 

Lung cancer surgery is a major procedure that carries some inherent risks and complications. Some of the common risk factors associated with lung cancer surgery include:

Anesthesia complications: Any surgery that requires general anesthesia carries the risk of side effects such as breathing difficulties, heart problems, or an allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

Blood clots: Blood clots can form in the legs or lungs after surgery and can be life-threatening.

Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, which can occur at the incision site or in other parts of the body.

PNEUMONIA:

Lung surgery can increase the risk of pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs.

LEAKAGE OF AIR OR FLUID FROM THE LUNGS:

The lungs can leak air or fluid after surgery, which can cause pain and breathing difficulties.

SCARRING OR ADHESIONS:

Scarring or adhesions can occur inside the chest after lung surgery, which can cause pain or difficulty breathing.

REACTIONS TO PAIN MEDICATION :

Some people may experience adverse reactions to pain medications used after surgery.

PLURAL EFFUSION:

This is a condition where fluid accumulates in the pleural cavity, which can cause difficulty breathing and pain.

HEART PROBLEMS:

Some people may experience heart problems after lung surgery, such as arrhythmias or heart attack.

It's important to discuss these and any other specific risks with your doctor before undergoing lung cancer surgery. Your doctor can help you weigh the potential risks against the benefits of the procedure and determine if it is right for you.

There are other risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer. 

AGE AND LUNG CANCER:

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and age is a major risk factor for developing lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer increases as people get older, and the majority of cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 55. 

However, it is important to note that anyone can develop lung cancer, regardless of age. Other factors, such as smoking, exposure to air pollution, and family history, can also increase the risk of lung cancer. If you are concerned about your risk of lung cancer, I would recommend talking to your doctor, who can help you assess your risk and determine the best course of action.

The risk of lung cancer increases with age. Most cases of lung cancer occur in people over the age of 60.

SMOKING HISTORY AND LUNG CANCER:

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for about 85% of all cases. When someone smokes, they inhale numerous harmful chemicals, including tar and carcinogens such as benzene and nitrosamines, which can damage the DNA in lung cells and increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

The more a person smokes and the longer they smoke, the greater their risk of developing lung cancer. Smokers are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers, and the risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the number of years a person has smoked.

Former smokers also have a higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to people who have never smoked, but the risk decreases the longer they have been smoke-free.

It is important to note that not all smokers will develop lung cancer, and there are also other factors that can increase the risk of lung cancer, such as exposure to air pollution, radon, and family history of lung cancer. 

However, quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk of lung cancer and improve overall health.

The longer someone has smoked and the more they smoke, the greater their risk of developing lung cancer.