Lung cancer is a disease that arises from the abnormal growth, uncontrolled proliferation, and spread of cells in lung tissue. Prof. Dr. Bülent Karagöz, Oncology Specialist at Anadolu Health Center Hospital, stated that lung cancer is among the three most common cancers worldwide in both genders. “Lung cancer generally occurs due to environmental factors. Smoking increases the risk of the disease by 15-30 times, accounting for 80-90% of deaths caused by lung cancer. Additionally, exposure to radiation and chemical pollutants like asbestos is also among the causes of lung cancer,” he explained.

Lung cancer is one of the most frequently observed cancer types globally. Prof. Dr. Karagöz emphasized that the rate of cancer development is related to the amount of carcinogen exposure, stating, “That’s why we use the term pack-year when discussing the relationship between lung cancer and smoking. Smoking one pack of cigarettes daily for a year is termed 1 pack-year, while smoking three packs daily for a year is termed 3 pack-years. We consider those with a 20 pack-year smoking history to be at high risk of developing lung cancer. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals, especially those between the ages of 50-80, to undergo annual low-dose lung tomography.”

Highlighting that smokers are at significant risk, Prof. Dr. Karagöz added, “It should not be forgotten that individuals in smoking environments, i.e., passive smokers, are also at risk. In addition to smoking, avoiding other tobacco products, radiation, and carcinogenic chemicals reduces the likelihood of the disease. Moreover, weight control, regular physical activity, and balanced and healthy nutrition are also important.”

Symptoms in Smokers May Go Unnoticed

Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Bülent Karagöz shared that lung cancer often presents with respiratory symptoms in its early stages. “Key complaints include cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing during breathing, sputum production, and bloody sputum. However, since these symptoms are also common in smokers, they may not attract attention or could be overlooked, allowing the cancer to progress unnoticed,” he explained. Prof. Dr. Karagöz emphasized that as the disease advances, issues such as fatigue, weight loss, and problems related to metastases may arise. “For instance, bone metastases may cause bone pain, liver metastases may result in jaundice, and brain metastases may lead to headaches or consciousness problems,” he added.

Smokers Should Get Regular Check-Ups Even Without Symptoms

Highlighting the importance of imaging in the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer, Prof. Dr. Karagöz stated, “Chest tomography and PET scans are the most frequently used tests to reveal the appearance and extent of the tumor in the lung. If these images suggest cancer, a definitive diagnosis is made through pathological examination. For this purpose, a biopsy or bronchoscopy—a method where the airways are viewed with a tube by a pulmonologist—may be employed. Even individuals without complaints should not neglect regular check-ups,” he advised.

Treatment Varies Based on the Extent of Disease Spread

Prof. Dr. Karagöz explained that treatment depends on how widely the disease has spread in the body. “Systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies can be used at any stage of the disease. In early stages, local treatments like surgery or radiotherapy may also be applied,” he noted.

Targeted Therapies May Treat Lung Cancer as a Chronic Condition

Prof. Dr. Karagöz expressed hope for complete recovery from lung cancer, especially when necessary local treatments are combined with systemic therapies in early stages. “In the near future, even in advanced stages, some types of lung cancer could be treated like a chronic disease with the use of targeted drugs,” he concluded.