Lung cancer is a malignancy that originates in the lungs and is often associated with smoking. Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for lung cancer is based on the test 21 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for lung cancer is included along with 14 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Cardiovascular and Respiratory Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score, and the Genetic Screening for Neoplasms and Precancerous Malformations, Polygenic Risk Score, along with 10 other diseases.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
Lung cancer accounts for almost 12% of all carcinomas diagnosed worldwide. The leading cause of the development of lung cancer is smoking. It is estimated that around 80% of cases are caused by smoking, and many of the remainder by exposure to tobacco smoke.
Smoking is undoubtedly the leading risk factor for lung cancer, although others have also been identified that may contribute:
- Time and number of cigarettes. The risk of lung cancer increases the more and longer cigarettes are smoked.
- Passive exposure to tobacco smoke.
- Exposure to radon, a radioactive gas that accumulates inside some homes and workplaces. It is estimated to be responsible for between 3-14% of lung cancer cases.
- Asbestos exposure.
- Environmental contamination. Some studies suggest that pollution in large cities may increase the risk of lung cancer.
Symptoms
In the early stages, lung cancer does not usually show symptoms. These appear when the cancer is more advanced, making its prognosis poor. The most characteristic signs and symptoms are:
- Persistent cough with blood
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Weight loss without apparent cause
- Bone and joint pain
- Headache
- Inflammation in the neck and face
Prevention
Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the world. Although it is not preventable, several measures can effectively reduce its risk.
- Avoid exposure to tobacco. Not smoking and avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke is the most effective measure to reduce the risk of lung cancer.
- Avoid exposure to radon or asbestos, chemicals directly related to lung cancer.
- Adapt a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and regular physical exercise.
