LUNG CANCER: PREVENTION AND SCREENING PREVENTION

1. Tobacco Control:

Global epidemic of lung cancer is most strongly related to the population practicing cigarette smoking. Most powerful primary prevention tool for lung cancer is cessation of smoking. Certain steps which have been taken in this direction are: Control of tobacco products by government regulatory authorities, Text warnings on cigarette packaging, public information on health hazards of smoking.

2. Stop Smoking:

Smoking is a very difficult addiction. Nicotine, the main addicting substance act as stimulatory in area of brain associated with safety and survival.

Getting over this addiction is very important before it is too late. Patients with lung cancer who continue to smoke have double risk of death. Smoking quitting leads to better treatment response, better quality of life and low risk of second cancer. Behavioral interventions, counseling and certain first line medicines have shown benefit. Tobacco cessation program should be part of thoracic oncology treatment group.

3. Lifestyle Changes:

Fresh fruits and vegetable and daily physical activity

4. Screening:

Lung cancer is most common cause of cancer related deaths. It is because most of the patients present at an advanced stage. Because of 20% reduction in lung cancer by low dose CT scan screening in high risk groups, screening guidelines have been advised various societies. Healthy smokers or former smokers between age 55-74 years or 80 years should consider screening with low dose CT scan. Chest Xray are not effective for screening purpose.