7 Things You Can do To Prevent / Treat Lung Cancer

It is possible to prevent or treat lung cancer by following one or a combination of treatments. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer or having a high risk of developing it can follow the strategies mentioned below for effective treatment and prevention of this condition.

7. Avoid smoking

The risk of lung cancer is higher in people who smoke. The risk of mortality due to lung cancer is also higher in smokers than in non-smokers. Hence, it is advisable to quit smoking to prevent this condition. [1]

6. Avoid carcinogens

Taking precautions to reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals and carcinogens at the workplace can help to prevent damage to the lungs and reduce the risk of lung cancer. For example, people who work outdoors can wear a facemask to reduce their exposure to smoke from vehicles and pollutants in the air. [2]

5. Surgery

Surgical procedures that involve the removal of the affected parts of the lungs can help to prevent further spread of the cancer cells. Your doctor may recommend different forms of surgeries like wedge resection, segmental resection, lobectomy, or pneumonectomy depending on the type and extent of the spread of lung cancer. [3]

4. Radiation treatment

Radiation therapy involves the use of high-powered energy rays directed precisely at the cancer mass. The exposure to these rays causes the destruction of the cancer cells. Depending on the stage of cancer, you may need one or more sessions of radiation. [4]

3. Chemotherapy

One or more chemotherapeutic drugs can be taken orally or administered intravenously through a vein for the management of lung cancer. Chemotherapy can be combined with radiation for faster and better results. Chemotherapy can also be given after surgery to kill the cancer cells that may have remained. [5]

2. Radiosurgery

Radiosurgery, also called stereotactic body radiotherapy, is an intense form of radiation treatment. It is suitable for patients with small lung cancer who cannot undergo invasive surgery or when the cancer has already spread to other organs. [6]

1. Targeted drug therapy

Targeted drug therapy is recommended for patients with an advanced stage of cancer. It is also suitable for treating cancer relapse. [7]

 Conclusion

Patients can adopt healthy lifestyle habits and undergo regular screening to assess their response to the treatment. They should also have regular follow-up visits after the treatment is over to detect a relapse of lung cancer.