When it comes to cancer, early diagnosis followed by timely treatment is key. To do that, assessing one’s risk factors and recognising the symptoms is of utmost importance. Particularly in the case of lung cancer, persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath are some of the most common symptoms, however, they can be misdiagnosed with other respiratory conditions. But what about the signs that are not so obvious? Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Kunjal Patel, Molecular Oncopathologist, Neuberg Centre for Genomic Centre, shares the lesser known signs of lung cancer
Lung Cancer Prevalence
Lung cancer is a malignant condition characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the lung tissues. It is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for the highest mortality rates among both men and women, says the World Health Organization (WHO), adding, "Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for approximately 85% of all cases."
Also Read: Things That Make You Prone To Lung Cancer Other Than Smoking
In India, lung cancer accounts for 5.9% of all cancers and 8.1% of all cancer-related deaths, according to a study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology.
Most Common Symptoms Of Lung Cancer
Common and well-known symptoms of lung cancer include:
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Fatigue
- Recurrent lung infections
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling in the neck or face
- Wheezing
Lesser Known Signs To Watch Out For
Dr Patel says, “Lung cancer can manifest in lesser-known ways, emphasising the importance of vigilance in early detection.”
Unexplained weight loss can be one such sign; while it's often attributed to other factors.
Another subtle yet significant indicator is shoulder or back pain. “Lung tumours can press against nerves, causing discomfort in these areas,” says the doctor, adding, “Keep in mind that persistent pain unrelated to an injury or strain should prompt further investigation.”
Finger clubbing is a peculiar sign often overlooked. It involves the fingernails becoming wider and rounder at the tips. Although not exclusive to lung cancer, it can signal an underlying problem with the lungs, as decreased oxygen levels affect nail growth.
Additionally, if your voice sounds rough or husky, you may have dysphonia - hoarseness, which may occur when lung cancer affects the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
Lastly, frequent headaches might be surprising, but if they worsen over time or don't respond to typical treatments, they could be linked to lung cancer that has metastasised to the brain, according to Dr Patel.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
Treatment And Diagnosis
Diagnosing lung cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as chest X-rays or CT scans, and other tests like biopsies of suspicious tissue. If you’re diagnosed with cancer, treatment options vary depending on the cancer's stage and type.
Common treatments include surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment is determined by the oncologist and medical team, considering factors, such as the cancer's stage, the patient's overall health, and the specific characteristics of the tumour.
