Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers with more than 50,000 new cases every year. It is important to understand and highlight the symptoms and risk factors associated with this cancer in order to put in place more effective prevention, early detection and treatment strategies.

What are the risk factors for lung cancer?

Les risk factors of lung cancer are mainly environmental and behavioural.

The main risk factor is the smoking, whether active or passive, that is to say, simply breathe in a smoking environment. Tobacco is, in fact, responsible for about 80% of cases of chest cancers. The consequences of smoking on health are all the more complex to realize as the time elapsed between the start of consumption and the diagnosis is counted in decades.

Other risk factors also includeexposure to radon, an odourless and colourless radioactive gas that is naturally present in some homes and buildings. THEexposure to asbestos can also cause lung cancer. This carcinogenic substance was used for a long time in construction and some other industries before being banned for use. Finally, the family history are to be considered.

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What are the main symptoms of lung cancer?

As for symptoms, they are relatively common and can be difficult to identify. Symptoms include: persistent cough which has lasted for several weeks and may be accompanied by coughing up blood. A tumor in the respiratory tract can also cause a Shortness of breath fast and a chest pain during an effort as well as a tiredness recurrent. Finally, a weight loss And appetite Unexplained cancer can also be seen when lung cancer is at a more advanced stage. It is important to see a doctor if you are unsure.

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Sources: National Cancer Institute, League Against Cancer, Léon Bérard Center