Lung cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths across India. The disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only in the advanced stages. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in one or both lungs.

The major cause is tobacco smoking, including passive smoke exposure, but it can also result from air pollution, genetic factors, and long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos or radon. 

Every year, World Lung Cancer Day is observed on August 1 around the globe, to raise awareness about lung cancer, and not only how it affects people but also why research is important. While that is ongoing, a lot can be done before hand, especially when diagnosed early, lung cancer is not only treatable but also curable. Doctors in Mumbai are urging people to be proactive about screenings and symptom awareness.

They say the symptoms seen during advanced stages can be a persistent cough, chest pain, breathlessness, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, or coughing up blood. “Early-stage lung cancer often has no visible symptoms, making regular screening crucial for high-risk groups such as smokers or people with a family history. Over 50 per cent of lung cancer cases are detected at advanced stages, leading to delayed treatment and higher risks of complications and mortality. There should be awareness regarding timely testing among individuals,” says Dr Upasana Garg, regional technical chief, Apollo Diagnostics in Andheri East.