(PDF) Pathophysiology and new advances in pulmonary hypertension
The Early Lung Cancer Warning Symptom You Can Feel In Your Fingers And Toes
You may not notice any obvious signs of lung cancer in its early stages, but they may show up in some unexpected parts of your body as it progresses Feeling pins and needles may be a sign of something serious, experts say (Image: E+/Getty Images)
Lung cancer, one of the four most common types of cancer in the UK, sees over 49,000 new cases each year, according to Cancer Research UK.
This disease is triggered by an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs, which are crucial for oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion.
Lung cancer in its early stages may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms can appear throughout the body.
In rare instances, people might experience pins and needles or numbness in their fingers or toes if lung cancer cells release hormones into the bloodstream.
"These hormones can cause symptoms that don't seem related to the lung cancer. Doctors call them paraneoplastic syndrome," said Cancer Research UK.
Lung cancer symptomsThe primary symptoms of lung cancer include:
The main symptoms of lung cancer are:
Image:
Getty Images/iStockphoto)Should any symptoms reminiscent of lung cancer arise, such as breathlessness or a continuous cough, the NHS recommends consulting a GP, reports the Express.
What will happen at a GP appointment?The NHS website explained: "The GP will ask about your general health and your symptoms. They may examine you and ask you to breathe into a device called a spirometer, which measures how much air you breathe in and out. You may be asked to have a blood test to rule out some of the possible causes of your symptoms, such as a chest infection."
A chest X-ray is often the first step in spotting lung cancer, as tumours typically show up as a white-grey area on the image.
Am I at risk of lung cancer?It varies from person to person, but puffing on cigarettes is the top culprit. Cancer Research UK found that 60% of lung cancer cases are tobacco-related, including passive smoking.
The charity urges smokers to kick the habit sooner rather than later, warning that the risk of lung cancer "increases more the longer you smoke and the more you smoke".
What are the other causes of lung cancer?Air pollution might not be as well-known, but it's still a significant hazard, responsible for 8% of UK cases.
The NHS also flags exposure to certain workplace chemicals and substances as potential dangers. These include:
Moreover, research has highlighted that long-term contact with diesel exhaust, such as nitrogen oxide gases, could up your chances of getting lung cancer.
Dodging certain lifestyle choices can help lower your risk, but studies suggest that embracing positive habits could further reduce the likelihood of developing the condition.
Research indicates that a diet low in fat and high in fibre, including at least five daily servings of fresh fruit and vegetables along with ample wholegrains, can decrease your risk of lung cancer, as well as other forms of cancer and heart disease.
There's also persuasive evidence suggesting that regular physical activity can lower the risk of developing lung cancer and other types of cancer.
Small Cell Lung Cancer: Facts About The Disease
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Why Lung Cancer Hits Black Communities Hardest
Lung cancer continues to have a profound impact on many communities, but the disparity is especially notable within Black populations. In these communities, lung cancer incidence and mortality rates are higher, underscoring the urgent need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies. Understanding the causes of lung cancer and addressing the factors contributing to its prevalence in Black communities can help reduce health disparities and improve outcomes.
Understanding cancer development mechanismsLung cancer develops through a combination of environmental exposures and cellular changes. Over time, the accumulation of DNA damage, mutations, and disrupted cell division can lead to the formation of cancerous growths. One of the key processes in cancer development is the alteration of the immune response, which prevents the body from effectively identifying and fighting abnormal cells.
Certain risk factors further contribute to these cellular changes, including oxidative stress, which accelerates cellular damage, and inflammation, which can disrupt normal tissue repair processes. These factors, when combined, create an environment conducive to cancer development, particularly when the body's mechanisms for repairing damaged cells are compromised.
Primary causeTobacco smoking remains the leading preventable cause of lung cancer. Smoking directly impacts the cells in the lungs by damaging their DNA and triggering inflammatory responses that impair the immune system. The mutagenic compounds in tobacco smoke further accelerate cellular damage, increasing the likelihood of cancerous growth.
For many Black communities, smoking rates are higher due to factors such as economic stress, cultural influences, and limited access to smoking cessation resources. The disproportionate burden of smoking-related diseases in these communities highlights the need for comprehensive prevention programs. Increased access to smoking cessation resources and community-based education can help reduce tobacco use and ultimately lower the incidence of lung cancer.
Environmental factorSecondhand smoke is another major environmental risk factor for lung cancer. Exposure to secondhand smoke occurs in various settings, such as households, workplaces, public spaces, and multi-unit housing. Passive smoke inhalation, especially over prolonged periods, significantly raises the risk of developing lung cancer. Cumulative exposure is particularly harmful to children, affecting their respiratory development and overall health.
In Black communities, where multi-unit housing and urban environments are more common, secondhand smoke exposure is a pervasive issue. Addressing this risk requires both public health outreach and stricter regulations to limit exposure in both public and private spaces.
Environmental hazardRadon gas, a naturally occurring but invisible and odorless hazard, is a significant environmental factor in lung cancer development. Radon exposure is particularly problematic in certain geographic areas, where the gas seeps from the ground into homes and buildings. The construction and ventilation of buildings can also influence the amount of radon exposure.
Though radon exposure is a silent threat, its risks can be mitigated through home testing programs and the installation of mitigation systems. Increased community awareness of radon and public health campaigns are crucial to reducing this hidden risk.
Occupational exposure risksOccupational exposure to hazardous substances is another important contributor to lung cancer risk. Workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and chemical processing are often exposed to harmful substances like asbestos, industrial chemicals, and urban pollution. These exposures can increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer, especially in individuals who work in high-risk environments without adequate protection.
To protect workers, safety measures such as the use of protective equipment, regular workplace monitoring, and health screenings are essential. Legal protections for workers exposed to these hazards can further reduce the risks of lung cancer and other related diseases.
Genetic predisposition factorsGenetic predisposition plays a crucial role in lung cancer risk. People with a family history of lung cancer or those carrying specific genetic mutations are at a heightened risk. Mutations that affect DNA repair capacity or metabolism can predispose individuals to cancer. The presence of certain genetic markers can also make individuals more susceptible to environmental carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke or industrial chemicals.
Early genetic screening and counseling can help identify individuals at increased risk, allowing for proactive prevention strategies. Understanding genetic influences on lung cancer can aid in creating personalized interventions and improve early detection efforts.
Healthcare access considerationsAddressing healthcare disparities remains a critical component of reducing lung cancer incidence in Black communities. Barriers to healthcare, such as insurance coverage limitations, the distribution of healthcare facilities, and cultural competency within medical practice, prevent many from receiving timely care. In communities with limited access to healthcare services, cancer is often diagnosed at later stages, reducing the chances of successful treatment.
Improvement strategies include expanding access to healthcare services through community health programs, mobile screening units, and patient navigation services. Building cultural competency within healthcare teams is equally important, as it fosters trust and ensures that medical providers can effectively communicate with diverse populations.
Prevention and screening protocolsLung cancer prevention and early detection programs are essential for reducing its impact. Comprehensive prevention strategies include smoking cessation programs, environmental protection efforts, workplace safety enhancements, and improving healthcare access. Screening programs play a vital role in identifying lung cancer in its early stages, when treatment is more effective.
By coordinating regular health assessments and risk factor evaluations, healthcare systems can ensure that individuals at higher risk are closely monitored. Follow-up care is just as important, as it ensures that any signs of cancer are detected early and that individuals receive the appropriate treatments.
Community engagement strategiesThe involvement of communities in lung cancer prevention is crucial. Outreach programs that provide education, support groups, and resources can significantly reduce risk factors. Engaging community leaders and integrating cultural considerations into these programs ensures that they resonate with the population they aim to serve.
Public health campaigns that incorporate language-appropriate materials, traditional practices, and leadership involvement can build trust and motivate individuals to take action in reducing lung cancer risks. Community engagement can help empower individuals to make healthier choices and advocate for better healthcare access and environmental protections.
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