What are the lung cancer symptoms?

Early stage lung cancer often does not cause symptoms. As the cancer grows, the following symptoms may appear:

• A cough that gets worse or does not go away
• Breathing difficulties, such as being short of breath
• Constant chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• A hoarse voice
• Feeling very tired all the time
• Frequent lung infections, such as pneumonia
• Unexplained weight loss

As these symptoms may also be related to other health problems, it is best to consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms to confirm your diagnosis.

What causes lung cancer?

The main cause of lung cancer is tobacco smoke from cigarettes, pipes or cigars.

Harmful substances in tobacco smoke damage the lung cells. Inhaling second-hand smoke from people smoking nearby can also cause lung cancer.

What are the risk factors of lung cancer?

You may be at risk for lung cancer if you:

• Are older than 40 years – Most people are older than 65 years when they are diagnosed with lung cancer
• Have contact with certain substances such as radon (a radioactive gas), asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel and air pollution
• Have family members with a history of lung cancer