Haridwar: Max Super Speciality Hospital Dehradun started a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the public about lung cancer, its risk factors, early symptoms, and the importance of early detection and prevention. From the hospital, Dr. Amit Saklani, Consultant, Medical Oncology, and Dr. Vaibhav Chachra, Principal Consultant, Pulmonology, shed light on the growing concern of lung cancer in the region.
Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, there are also cases where individuals who have never smoked developed this disease. Air pollution is a significant contributor to lung cancer among non-smokers. Factors such as traffic congestion, chemical waste from industries, and the remnants of burning trash damage lung cells, thereby increasing the risk of cancer. Genetics (hereditary factors) can also play a role in the development of lung cancer.
Dr. Amit Saklani, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Max Hospital, Dehradun, said “Lung cancer is curable if diagnosed early. The treatment options depend on the stage of cancer and how far it has spread. These may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer. Several warning signs of lung cancer are cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Early symptoms are often mild or unnoticed, and patients may misinterpret them as a common cold or flu, delaying medical consultation and treatment. This delay can have severe consequences, as lung cancer often does not show significant symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage.”
Dr. Vaibhav Chachra, Principal Consultant, Pulmonology, Max Hospital, Dehradun, said, “Air pollution is a significant, yet often overlooked, risk factor for lung cancer. Exposure to harmful pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic chemicals in the air can damage lung tissue over time, increasing the risk of developing cancer. Even individuals without a history of smoking are at risk, particularly those who live in areas with high levels of pollution or work in mines and factories. Protecting lung health starts with improving air quality, but it’s equally important for people to be aware of the risks and take steps to limit exposure—such as avoiding outdoor activities during high pollution days. Specially people working in mines or factories, are advised to wear protective gear at all times while working.”
People who have been smoking or using tobacco for many years should consult a doctor to quit smoking and also seek advice on lung cancer screening. Screening can help detect cancer at an early stage, which increases the chances of saving the patient’s life with timely treatment. The awareness campaign aims to educate people about the risks of lung cancer, the importance of early diagnosis, and strategies to improve lung health.
