Lung Cancer Epidemiology: Why Numbers are Rising?
Lungs are the vital organs that command the respiratory system in the body. They take oxygen in when you inhale and release the carbon dioxide when you exhale. The incidence of lung cancer in India is rising rapidly. However, early diagnosis is the light at the end of the tunnel. Many risk factors cause this life-threatening disease, while smoking is the main amongst all. But, there are cases where non-smokers also diagnosed with this cancer. So, let’s understand basic lung cancer epidemiology, the reasons why India cancer rate is increasing and how a mediclaim policy is helpful?
What is Lung Cancer?
Lungs are the vital organs for breathing. Lung cancer is a disease in which cells in the lungs divide uncontrollably. It causes tumours and reduces a patient’s ability to breathe. There are two types of lung cancer- small cell and non-small cell. Mostly, cases are diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. It occurs in the outer part of the lungs, whereas the second type of cancer occurs in the passages of the respiratory tract. The risk of lung cancer increases with the time and in fact, it can grow large before you notice its symptoms. Read below more about its symptoms:
What are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
The symptoms of both types of lung cancer are the same. Here are its early symptoms:
- Bad Cough
- Phlegm or blood in coughing
- Chest pain during breathing, laughing, or coughing
- Hoarseness
- Shortness of Breath
- Weakness
- Loss of Appetite
- Weight Loss
Why Numbers of Lung Cancer Cases are Rising?
There are several reasons that may increase India cancer rate. Some of them can be controlled while some are uncontrollable. Read some of the important factors:
Smoking- It is one of the greatest causes of lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes a person smokes every day. People are getting addicted to smoking in India, youth due to fashion statement or peer pressure start smoking at an early age. Some people smoke due to work or other pressure also. Thus, people have their reasons for smoking, which results in a higher number of lung cancer patients in the country.
Second-Hand Smoke- As the number of smokers increasing day by day, exposure to second-hand smoke is also increasing simultaneously. Second-hand smoke is the smoke that inhales and exhales by the second person who is closely in touch with a smoker. It occurs from burning of tobacco, cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Unfortunately, people who do not smoke and come under the exposure of second-hand smoke also become the victim of this critical illness.
Radiation Therapy- As cancer is spreading in India rapidly, many people go for radiation therapy as well to cure the disease. It is also observed that people who have undergone such radiation therapy on the chest for the treatment of another cancer are more vulnerable to lung cancer. Radiation therapy is hazardous, and not good for patient’s health.
Radon Gas- It is a natural radioactive gas that is a decay product of uranium that releases a type of ionizing radiation. It can passes through soil and enter into the home through gaps in the base, pipes, drains, etc. Sooner or later it becomes part of the air people breathe every day. It is the most hazardous gas that affects respiratory system immensely. In India, people are still not aware of the threats of this gas, and there are no as such precautions are taken to curb the usage of radon gas.
Other Carcinogens- Carcinogens mean anything that causes cancer. It can be a substance in the air, chemical, and even a food. People who come under exposure to workplace and manufacturing plants carcinogens like asbestos, arsenic, chromium, and nickel are at high risk of developing lung cancer.
Family History- Number of people here have a family history of different types of cancer. It makes other family members more vulnerable to cancer. So, people who have grandparents, father, mother, or sibling diagnosed with lung cancer in the past, should be careful.
>> Also read choose the health insurance for lung cancer
What are the Preventive Measures for Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is one of the life-threatening diseases that can take a toll on the emotional and mental well-being of the patients. Yet, with the right preventive measures, there is a possibility to come out of this trauma.
Early Diagnosis- Early diagnosis can help a person to start the treatment at the earliest. It can curtail the spread of tumours in other parts of the body and saves a life.
Treatment- After diagnosis starts the treatment immediately. Consult with the good oncologist and follow the treatment plan religiously with proper medication to have better results.
Diet- Once the treatment gets started; patients cannot take usual diet. They should take a diet prescribed by dieticians. It should be a mix of nutrients and proteins. Avoid smoking and alcohol.
Acupuncture- If prescribed by the doctor, some acupuncture activities with the help of tools or inhale and exhale with the right breathing techniques are also good. It helps the lungs to circulate the inner blood flow.
Yoga – People can combine the breathing techniques, meditation, stretching, and do yoga. It gives relaxation, reduces stress, improves sleep, and also mends the overall well-being.
How Health Insurance is Helpful?
Lung cancer is a critical illness that needs on-going treatment. These days when medical inflation is increasing and treatment costs are also shooting up, it is highly recommended to buy health insurance covering critical illness.
It provides a wide range of coverage with exclusive benefits. Check below how it is helpful?
- Coverage for pre and post hospitalization expenses, OPD expenses, diagnosis, doctor’s fee, medication, etc.
- Provide a cashless hospitalization facility in 24800+ cashless healthcare providers
- Provide additional benefits such as second opinion, global coverage, and annual health-check-up.
- Lifelong renewability
- Coverage for alternative treatments, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and day-care treatments.
- Tax benefit under Section 80D
We understand the financial and emotional implications that occur because of such critical illnesses. With the above mentioned benefits, we cover 32 critical illnesses under our super mediclaim policy. So, you can focus on your recovery while we take care of your medical expenses.
Disclaimer: Underwriting of claims for Lung Cancer is subject to policy terms and conditions.
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