Home HealthWorld Lung Cancer Day 2023: 6 Early Signs of Cancer in Youngsters and How to Prevent It
Lung cancer, once a rarity, has become increasingly common due to sedentary lifestyles and environmental changes. World Lung Cancer Day is celebrated on August 1st each year to raise awareness about the disease and the importance of self-screening. In India, cases are projected to rise from 1.46 million in 2022 to 1.57 million in 2025. Males are more likely to develop lung cancer than females. Pollution and smoking, both active and passive, are significant contributors to lung cancer. To identify early signs, it is important to note that while lung cancer is more common in older adults, younger individuals can also be affected. Symptoms in youth are generally similar to those in older individuals. According to Dr. Rajesh Mistry, Director of Oncology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, most cases are still diagnosed in older adults with a history of smoking.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer
- Persistent cough: A chronic cough that may worsen over time, either dry or with sputum or blood
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling out of breath, especially during vigorous physical activity
- Chest pain: Dull or sharp chest pain, constant or intermittent
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling tired and weak
- Wheezing, often associated with constricted airways
- Recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
- Coughing up blood
Prevention Tips for Lung Cancer
To prevent lung cancer in youth, it is important to make healthy lifestyle choices and avoid known risk factors. These include avoiding smoking and tobacco products, second-hand smoke, and reducing exposure to environmental hazards in industries with potential lung cancer risks. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of various diseases, including lung cancer. Regular health check-ups are recommended for those with a family history of the disease.