Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest and most difficult to treat cancer types around because of its tendency to spread to other body organs at an early stage. According to the American Cancer Society's most recent estimates for the United States, 219,440 new cases of lung cancer were diagnosed and 159,390 deaths from lung cancer occurred. Statistics indicate 1 in 13 men and 1 in 16 women are likely to develop lung cancer during their lifetime. These numbers include both smokers and non-smokers although smokers are at much higher risk. Since early detection significantly improves the chances of survival it is essential to understand and recognize common lung cancer symptoms especially for those who are at greatest risk for development of the disease.

Lung cancer originates in the cells of the lung tissues. Under normal conditions cells divide and reproduce according to the body's needs. Sometimes, however, due to abnormalities like disease, cells divide and proliferate in an uncontrolled manner and form an abnormal mass (tumor). Not all tumors are cancerous but those which result in lung cancer symptoms are. Malignant tumors associated with lung cancer not only multiply quickly but tend to spread aggressively to other parts of the body, in a process called metastasis. While the disease can spread to practically any part of the body, certain organs including the liver, adrenal glands, bone and the brain are most prone to being affected.

While not an exhaustive list here are some of the more common signs and symptoms of lung cancer, according to the WebMD Cancer Guide to be aware of that have been observed in a wide cross section of lung cancer patients.

-- An unexplained cough that does not go away or gets worse over time.
-- Bloody or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm).
-- Persistent chest pain.
-- Shortness of breath.
-- Infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia that keep returning.
-- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite.

It is important to note that according to American Cancer Society, most people with early lung cancer do not have any symptoms and thus only a small number of lung cancers are found at an early stage. When lung cancer is detected early, it is often because of tests that were being done for something else. This stresses the importance of prevention and early detection through things like smoking cessation and regular medical check ups.