Recent statistics indicate that lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Although lung cancer typically does not show symptoms in the early stages of the disease, warning signs can become noticeable as the condition progresses.
Thus, there is a significant drive among healthcare providers and doctors to educate people about the symptoms and how to reduce their risks. On World Lung Cancer Day, which falls on August 1st, the UK's National Health Service (NHS) launched the "Help Us To Help You" initiative, urging people not to ignore the key symptoms of this deadly disease and encouraging individuals to visit their general practitioner if they experience any symptoms of lung cancer.
Most symptoms of lung cancer manifest in how a person breathes and the effectiveness of their breathing. Key symptoms to watch for include persistent shortness of breath and a cough that does not change after two to three weeks. Coughing can be a symptom of many other conditions, making it crucial to distinguish between a common cough and one that may indicate lung cancer.
Attention should be paid to a cough that persists beyond two or three weeks and worsens over time, as it may be a cause for concern, especially if there is coughing up blood. The type of cough can vary from patient to patient, but in some cases, lung cancer cough may be accompanied by wheezing (whistling breath) or raspy sound and hoarseness.
The severity of the cough cannot be determined by the sound it makes; therefore, if it lasts for an extended period, a doctor's appointment should be scheduled. Other symptoms of lung cancer include:
- Frequent chest infections
- Coughing up blood
- Pain or discomfort when breathing or coughing
- Persistent fatigue or lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
