Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. Lung cancer accounts for about 15 percent of all new cancer diagnoses and about 29 percent of all cancer deaths in 2008 estimates. Men have a one in 13 average lifetime chance of developing lung cancer, and, for women, it is one in 16. More people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. Tobacco use is the most important risk factor for lung cancer.

AT RISK
 
People who use tobacco in any form
People exposed to second-hand smoke
People who have had exposure to substances such as arsenic, radon or asbestos
People whose occupations exposes them to radiation
People exposed to air pollution

RISK REDUCTION AND EARLY DETECTION
 
Do not use tobacco in any form.
Create smoke-free environments in your home and community.
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
Be physically active and exercise regularly.
A spiral CT scan can detect early lung cancer in people who are smokers and former smokers. Research is under way to determine whether spiral CT screening reduces death from lung cancer. Speak with your health care professional to learn more about the risks and benefits of this approach.

SYMPTOMS

In the early stages, there may be no symptoms. Later these symptoms may occur:
 
Persistent cough
Sputum (spit) streaked with blood
Chest pain
Recurring pneumonia or bronchitis
Weight loss and loss of appetite
Hoarseness

TREATMENT

Once diagnosed with lung cancer, treatment is determined by the type, either small cell or non-small cell.
 
Surgery is usually the treatment for localized disease.
Radiation and chemotherapy are sometimes used in combination with surgery for later stages.
New, minimally invasive surgery may allow for faster recovery with results comparable to older, more aggressive surgery.