Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer starts in the cells of the lung. A cancerous tumour is a group of cancer cells that can grow into and destroy nearby tissue.

It can also spread to other parts of the body. When cancer starts in lung cells, it is called primary Lung Cancer.

The lung is part of the Respiratory System. You use your lungs when you breathe. The lungs are in the chest, one on each side of the heart. The right lung has 3 main parts, called lobes. The left lung is a bit smaller and has 2 lobes.

Lung Cancers are divided into non–small cell Lung Cancer and small cell lung cancer based on the type of cell in which the cancer started.

The stage of lung cancer refers to the extent to which the cancer has spread in the body.

Risk factors for lung cancer:

Smoking tobacco

Second-hand smoke

Radon

Asbestos

Occupational exposure to certain chemicals

Outdoor air pollution

Personal or family history of lung cancer

Personal history of lung disease

Exposure to radiation

Arsenic in drinking water

Pollutants from cooking and heating

Weakened immune system

Lupus

Beta carotene supplements in smokers