Lung Cancer Overview: Symptoms, Treatment and Causes
Get a comprehensive overview of lung cancer, including its types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Learn how early detection and medical advances can improve outcomes and survival rates.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair MBBS
Last updated on 26th Aug, 2025
Lung cancer is a serious health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer or is experiencing symptoms, it’s important to understand the basics of the disease, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. This article will guide you through everything you need to know in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What Is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in one or both lungs. These cells can form tumors and interfere with lung function, making it difficult to breathe. If not detected early, lung cancer can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the brain, bones, or liver.
There are two main types of lung cancer:
1. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – The most common type (about 85% of cases), which grows and spreads more slowly.
2. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – A less common but more aggressive form that spreads quickly.
Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, so knowing the symptoms is crucial.
Consult a Top Pulmonologist
Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer symptoms may not appear in the early stages, but as the disease progresses, you may experience:
- Persistent cough (that doesn’t go away or gets worse)
- Coughing up blood (even small amounts)
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Fatigue or weakness
- Recurrent lung infections (like bronchitis or pneumonia)
- Hoarseness in the voice
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if you are at high risk (such as smokers or those with a family history), consult a doctor immediately.
What Causes Lung Cancer?
The leading cause of lung cancer is smoking, including cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. However, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer due to other risk factors, such as:
- Secondhand smoke (breathing in smoke from others)
- Exposure to radon gas (a natural radioactive gas found in some homes)
- Asbestos and other chemicals (like arsenic, nickel, or diesel exhaust)
- Air pollution (long-term exposure to polluted air)
- Family history (genetic predisposition)
- Previous radiation therapy (especially to the chest)
While quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk, lung cancer can still develop in non-smokers, so awareness is key.
How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects lung cancer, they may recommend tests such as:
- Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, PET scans) to look for tumors.
- Sputum cytology (examining mucus under a microscope for cancer cells).
- Biopsy (removing a small tissue sample for testing).
- Bronchoscopy (using a thin tube with a camera to examine the lungs).
Early diagnosis improves treatment success, so don’t delay medical advice if you have symptoms.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer
Treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer, as well as your overall health. Common treatments include:
1. Surgery – Removing the tumor or part of the lung (for early-stage cancer).
2. Radiation Therapy – Using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy – Powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells (often used for advanced stages).
4. Targeted Therapy – Drugs that attack specific cancer cell mutations.
5. Immunotherapy – Boosting the immune system to fight cancer.
Your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan based on your condition.
Lifestyle and Prevention Tips
While not all lung cancers can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:
- Quitting smoking – The best way to lower lung cancer risk.
- Avoiding secondhand smoke – Stay away from smokers or ask them to smoke outside.
- Testing for radon – Check your home for radon levels.
- Limiting exposure to harmful chemicals – Wear protective gear if working with asbestos or other toxins.
- Eating a healthy diet – Fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants may help.
- Exercising regularly – Staying active supports lung health.
When to See a Doctor?
If you have persistent symptoms like a chronic cough, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss, don’t ignore them. Early detection saves lives.
Need Help? Book a Consultation Today
If you suspect lung cancer or want to get screened, Apollo24|7 offers expert consultations and diagnostic tests. Early detection can make a big difference in treatment success.
Final Thoughts
Lung cancer is a serious disease, but understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatments can help you take the right steps toward better health. If you or someone you know is at risk, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. With early detection and proper care, many people successfully manage lung cancer and lead fulfilling lives.
Consult a Top Pulmonologist
Consult a Top Pulmonologist
Dr. Sumara Maqbool
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory, critical care and sleep medicine, DrNB superspeciality Critical care, IDCCM, IFCCM, EDIC
Delhi
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(25+ Patients)
Dr. Arjun Ramaswamy
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Dr. K R R Umamahesh Reddy
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Nellore
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(25+ Patients)
Dr. Aakanksha Chawla
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MD (Pulmonary Medicine), IDCCM, IFCCM (Indian Fellowship in Critical Care Medicine)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(250+ Patients)
Dr. R. Nithiyanandan
Pulmonology/critical Care Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine , DM Pulmonary and critical care medicine
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
Consult a Top Pulmonologist
Dr. Sumara Maqbool
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory, critical care and sleep medicine, DrNB superspeciality Critical care, IDCCM, IFCCM, EDIC
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Arjun Ramaswamy
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MD (RESPIRATORY MEDICINE), DM (PULMONARY MEDICINE, CRITICAL CARE AND SLEEP MEDICINE)
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(25+ Patients)
Dr. K R R Umamahesh Reddy
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MBBS, MD Pul Med.
Nellore
Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Aakanksha Chawla
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MD (Pulmonary Medicine), IDCCM, IFCCM (Indian Fellowship in Critical Care Medicine)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(250+ Patients)
Dr. R. Nithiyanandan
Pulmonology/critical Care Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine , DM Pulmonary and critical care medicine
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
