What are the common symptoms and causes of lung cancer?

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer:

- Persistent cough that doesn't go away or worsens

- Shortness of breath or wheezing

- Chest pain or discomfort

- Hoarseness or changes in voice

- Unintended weight loss

- Fatigue and lack of energy

- Bone pain

- Headaches

- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or above the collarbone

- Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum

Causes of Lung Cancer:

- Smoking: The leading risk factor for lung cancer is smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products. Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage lung cells and contribute to cancerous mutations.

- Exposure to secondhand smoke: Inhaling secondhand smoke from someone else's smoking can also increase the risk of lung cancer.

- Exposure to radon gas: Radon is a radioactive gas that is found naturally in the ground and can seep into homes and buildings. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer.

- Exposure to asbestos: Asbestos fibers can be inhaled and cause damage to lung tissue, increasing the risk of developing lung cancer.

- Family history of lung cancer: Having a family member with lung cancer slightly increases the risk of developing the disease. People with a strong family history of lung cancer may benefit from genetic counseling to assess their individual risk.

- Other risk factors: Certain occupations (such as mining, construction, and firefighting), exposure to certain chemicals (like arsenic, benzene, and chromium), and air pollution can also contribute to lung cancer risk.