New Delhi: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-linked deaths across the globe, accounting for 18.7 per cent of all cases, as per the Globocan 2022 report. The overall cases of lung cancer in India are rapidly increasing due to factors such as poor lifestyle, stress, pollution and smoking. According to recent studies, women are more vulnerable to lung cancer, even non-smokers. Apart from these factors, Tuberculosis (TB) can increase the risk of lung cancer, and the danger may increase in the first years after a TB diagnosis.
A meta-analysis has also found that TB may raise the risk of lung cancer by 1.7 times. On the other hand, some studies have found that the danger may remain 1.99 times higher for more than 20 years. However, other studies have found that the risk reduces after two years.
Dr L.M. Darlong, Head of Thoracic Oncosurgery, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) told News9, “Tuberculosis (TB) and lung cancer share similar symptoms such as cough, weight loss, and hemoptysis leading to potential misdiagnosis. In India, where TB is common, healthcare providers must consider cancer in their differential diagnosis. Tissue biopsy is essential to distinguish between TB and lung cancer.”
“Treatment of TB is completely different from lung cancer treatment. While TB can be effectively managed with medication and generally resolves with proper treatment, lung cancer requires different therapeutic approaches. If lung cancer is not detected early, it can advance to stage 4, at which point it becomes incurable. Chronic TB can lead to cancer due to persistent irritation. This overlap can sometimes result in confusion and misdiagnosis, potentially allowing lung cancer to progress unchecked,” added Dr Darlong.
Symptoms of lung cancer
Persistent cough is the most common initial symptom while other symptoms include hemoptysis (blood in sputum), weight loss, anorexia, chest pain, and pleural effusion.
Risk factors for lung cancer besides smoking
Passive smokers are 2.5 to 3 times more likely to develop lung cancer compared to non-exposed individuals. Other risk factors include occupational exposures, pre-existing lung diseases (e.g., COPD, interstitial lung disease), and radiation exposure. Occupational exposures to substances like asbestos, cadmium, and beryllium, as well as living near industrial plants with high radiation levels, increase the risk of lung cancer.
Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter known as PM2.5, is a significant risk factor for lung cancer. PM2.5 particles are very small and can enter the lungs when inhaled.
PM2.5 can trigger mutations in the lungs. These particles are so small that they get absorbed into the blood and cause changes in the DNA of lung cells. This can lead to the development of lung cancer. Lung cancer associated with PM2.5 exposure often shows mutations linked to genes such as EGFR. The EGFR gene helps control how cells grow and divide normally. But when this gene is mutated or too active, it can cause cells to grow uncontrollably, which can lead to cancer. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 (like over 10 years) increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
Role of mutational testing in lung cancer treatment
According to Dr Darlong, “It has been found that patients with family members who have lung cancer have an increased risk of developing the same. This suggests there is some form of genetic component. As far as pre-genetic testing is concerned, it is not yet developed for lung cancer. However, genetic tests may play a role if there is a syndromic kind of disease present, such as Leigh-Faraday syndrome, which involves lung cancer along with other cancers like bone cancer and leukaemia.”
There are mutational tests in lung cancer that greatly influence treatment. Mutations in the DNA of the patient, caused by either genetic or environmental factors, can be identified (e.g., ALK, EGFR, ROS). If a patient tests positive for these mutations, they can receive targeted therapy specific to their type of cancer.
“A common misconception is that stage 3 or 4 lung cancer is untreatable. However, advances in science have provided many treatment options, and patients can respond well if they have the appropriate markers. Public awareness should emphasize the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment,” said Dr Darlong.
Beyond tobacco control, preventive strategies include regular testing for workers exposed to harmful agents and improving lung cancer screening in India.
A meta-analysis has also found that TB may raise the risk of lung cancer by 1.7 times. On the other hand, some studies have found that the danger may remain 1.99 times higher for more than 20 years. However, other studies have found that the risk reduces after two years. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
