Lung cancer: What you need to know
Published:Saturday | November 2, 2024 | 1:51 PM
November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the world’s leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Lung cancer claims more lives each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancers combined, underscoring the importance of prevention, early detection, and innovative treatment approaches.
With approximately 2.2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths worldwide annually, the month serves as a reminder of the urgent need for education on risk factors, symptoms, and the impact of lifestyle changes on reducing lung cancer risk.
In Jamaica, lung cancer remains a significant health concern, though its prevalence is comparatively lower than in North America. Limited awareness, stigma surrounding smoking, and challenges in accessing advanced diagnostics and treatments make early detection and prevention essential.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month offers an opportunity for communities worldwide and locally in Jamaica to advocate for lung health, support advancements in research, and improve access to lifesaving resources, helping more people detect lung cancer early when it’s most treatable.
Here are some important pieces of information regarding lung cancer:
PREVALENCE:
• Lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide and the leading cause of cancer deaths, accounting for approximately 18 per cent of all cancer deaths.
• There are approximately 2.2 million new lung cancer cases and 1.8 million deaths globally each year.
• Men are more affected than women globally, though rates in women are rising because of increased smoking prevalence.
RISK FACTORS:
• Smoking: Primary cause of lung cancer, responsible for about 85 per cent of cases globally; includes tobacco use in cigarettes, pipes, cigars, and exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Occupational exposure: Working with carcinogens such as asbestos, radon, and silica increases lung cancer risk.
• Environmental factors: Air pollution, including emissions from vehicles, industries, and power plants, has been linked to higher lung cancer rates.
• Genetics: Family history of lung cancer slightly increases risk.
TYPES OF LUNG CANCER:
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Most common type (85 per cent), includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Aggressive form, tends to spread more rapidly and represents 15 per cent of cases.
SYMPTOMS:
• Persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, weight loss, fatigue, coughing up blood, and recurrent infections (like bronchitis or pneumonia).
TREATMENT OPTIONS:
• Surgery: For early-stage lung cancers, this involves removing part or all of a lung.
• Radiation therapy: Used in conjunction with other treatments or for inoperable tumours.
• Chemotherapy: Common in treating both early and advanced stages, especially for SCLC.
• Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: Focuses on specific genetic mutations and helps the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.
PREVENTION:
• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to workplace carcinogens (proper ventilation, use of masks, etc.).
• Reduce indoor radon levels and mitigate air pollution exposure when possible.
SURVIVAL RATES:
• Five-year survival rate varies based on stage, type, and region, generally low due to late-stage diagnoses. Survival rates are better in high-income countries with better healthcare infrastructure.
LUNG CANCER IN JAMAICA
PREVALENCE:
• Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Jamaica, though rates are lower than in North America and Europe.
• It accounts for roughly 5-7 per cent of cancer cases in Jamaica, but this may be underreported due to diagnostic limitations.
RISK FACTORS SPECIFIC TO JAMAICA:
• Smoking: Primary cause; smoking rates are moderate but increasing among young people. Tobacco control measures are less stringent, which can increase smoking prevalence.
• Occupational exposure: Some Jamaican workers, particularly in mining and construction, are exposed to carcinogens like asbestos and silica.
• Genetics: There’s some evidence suggesting genetic predispositions among Caribbean populations.
• Air quality: Exposure to pollutants from vehicular emissions, burning of trash, and industrial waste adds to the risk.
HEALTHCARE CHALLENGES:
• Diagnostic limitations: Limited access to CT scans and PET scans, which are crucial for early detection.
• Awareness: Lung cancer awareness is limited, and the stigma around smoking-related illnesses can delay individuals from seeking treatment.
• Treatment access: Limited access to advanced treatment options such as immunotherapy and targeted therapies, due to high costs and limited availability.
PREVENTION AND AWARENESS EFFORTS:
• Tobacco control programmes: Jamaica has made efforts to implement tobacco-free public spaces and health warnings on cigarette packages.
• Education campaigns: There are ongoing campaigns by health authorities to reduce smoking rates and raise awareness of lung cancer symptoms and risk factors.
• Workplace safety: Increasing efforts to regulate and monitor air quality in workplaces, though enforcement may vary.
SURVIVAL RATES:
• The survival rate for lung cancer in Jamaica remains low due to late-stage diagnosis and limited access to specialised treatment options.
TIPS FOR REDUCING LUNG CANCER RISK
1. Quit smoking: Seek help from cessation programmes or support groups if needed; reducing tobacco use can dramatically lower lung cancer risk.
2. Avoid secondhand smoke: Limit exposure to secondhand smoke, especially in shared public spaces.
3. Maintain good air quality at home: Use ventilation systems, reduce indoor pollutants, and test for radon.
4. Exercise regularly: Physical activity supports lung health and overall immune function.
5. Healthy diet: Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can contribute to lower cancer risks.
6. Routine health checks: Those with a history of smoking or family history of lung cancer should discuss lung cancer screening with their doctor.
7. Advocate for policy changes: Support initiatives to improve air quality, regulate tobacco advertising, and make smoking cessation resources available.
These facts and tips aim to increase awareness of lung cancer both globally and within Jamaica, highlighting the importance of prevention, early detection, and policy support.