Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women. In fact, this disease claims the lives of more people than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. Risk Factors The single biggest risk factor for lung cancer is tobacco smoke from cigarettes, as well as cigars and pipes. About 85 percent of lung cancer cases are believed to be caused by smoking. Risk increases with how long a person has smoked and the number of packs smoked per day. Constant exposure to tobacco smoke can put those who don’t smoke at risk, too. For instance, nonsmoking spouses of smokers have a higher risk of developing lung cancer than spouses of nonsmokers. Besides tobacco, other factors that can cause lung cancer include exposure to asbestos or radon gas, and lung scarring from pneumonia. Symptoms Early lung cancers usually don’t cause symptoms. And, most don’t occur until the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms include:
A nagging cough that doesn’t go away Constant chest, shoulder or back pain Hoarseness Shortness of breath Coughing up blood Weight loss or loss of appetite Recurring bronchitis, pneumonia or other infection
These symptoms don’t necessarily indicate that someone has lung cancer. Another condition may be the cause. Regardless, people at high risk should visit their doctors whenever they see these signs. Treatment Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are the most common treatments. The combination and intensity of treatments often depend on how advanced the cancer is and the patient’s overall health. Prevention Don’t smoke—it’s the best way to help prevent lung cancer. Keep away from other people’s cigarette smoke, too. And, if you currently use tobacco products, quit today! After quitting, lung tissue slowly returns to normal, and the risk of developing cancer lessens, as well. Kicking a tobacco habit may not be easy, but your health depends on it. With myuhc.com®, UnitedHealthcare’s innovative consumer Web site, you can access an array of health information that will help you answer important questions relating to cancer and many other health and wellness topics. If you want tips on how to quit smoking, or have questions about lung cancer or many other health-related concerns, call Care24. Nurses are available 24 hours every day.
Care24 1-888-887-4114
TDD/TTY callers, please call the National Relay Center at 1-800-855-2880 and ask for 1-888-887-4114.
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