Lung cancer is most common cancer to spread to brain, reveal experts

Lung cancer is the most common cancer that can spread to the brain and create secondary cancer said experts on Thursday on World Lung Cancer DayWorld Lung Cancer Day is observed every year on August 1 to raise awareness around lung cancer a leading cause of mortality worldwideIn India lung cancer accounts for an annual incidence of 72510 cases making up 58 per cent of all cancer cases and ranking as the third most commonly diagnosed cancer according to a recent study published in the journal The Lancet Regional HealthThe health experts noted that a significant challenge arises when lung cancer metastasizes to critical parts of the body such as the brainBrain metastases are a prevalent complication across various cancer types particularly among lung cancer patients Praveen Gupta Principal Director amp Chief of Neurology Fortis Hospital told IANSAbout 10 per cent of newly diagnosed patients with advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer NSCLC develop brain metastases Lung cancer accounts for 40 to 50 per cent of primary tumours in these cases he addedAddressing brain metastases requires a multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists neurologists and palliative care specialists to meet the complex needs of patientsThe primary goals are to alleviate symptoms extend survival and enhance the overall quality of life through personalised treatment plans and supportive careCommon symptoms of brain metastases include persistent headaches seizures cognitive impairments personality changes and difficulties with motor functions or speech These symptoms result from cancerous cells disrupting normal brain function causing swelling pressure and damage to neural pathways Gupta saidLung cancer that has spread to the brain can be treated via therapies such as radiation and systemic chemotherapy These interventions aim to manage both the primary lung cancer and brain metastasesAlso ReadZika virus can lead to neurological complications DoctorsTobacco smoking is the primary risk factor for lung cancer in India contributing to a significant proportion of casesCigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer responsible for about 85 per cent of all cases Quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce the risk Pavan Yadav Lead Consultant Interventional Pulmonology ampamp Lung Transplantation Aster RV Hospital told IANSHowever exposure to environmental pollutants occupational hazards and genetic factors also play crucial roles in the development of this disease he addedEarly cancer detection and screening however play a crucial role in improving lung cancer outcomesWhen lung cancer is diagnosed at an early stage before it has spread to other parts of the body there is a higher chance of successful treatment and potential cure Yadav saidHe also recommended screening programmes like Lowdose computed tomography LDCT scans for highrisk individuals such as heavy smokers and those with a family history of the diseaseThe experts also called to quit smoking and to recognise warning signs such as persistent cough chest pain shortness of breath hoarseness unexplained weight loss and coughing up blood can prompt individuals to seek medical evaluation if they experience these signsThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever