Lung Cancer Awareness: Treatment Options and Prevention Strategies

by Dr. Sai Vivek V

In this informative video blog, Dr. Sai Vivek V., Consultant in Medical Oncology and Haemato-Oncology at Aster Whitefield Hospital discusses lung cancer awareness and how to prevent it. 

Different treatment modalities for lung cancer

There are various treatment options for lung cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. 

  • Surgical intervention is the preferred course of action for stage 1, 2, and early stage 3 lung cancer.
  • Radiation therapy employs a high-energy source to target a specific area or organ. It's used curatively in stage 3 lung cancer and to reduce the spread of cancer in stage four.
  • Chemotherapy involves administering chemicals intravenously to destroy rapidly multiplying cells. It can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and hair loss.
  • Targeted therapy medications target specific alterations within cancer cells, resulting in fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy.
  • Immunotherapy bolsters the body's immune system to combat cancer cells.

Early detection is key

Early detection is critical for successful lung cancer treatment. People with a history of smoking are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Smokers aged 40 to 55 with a significant smoking history of 10 to 15 years should undergo a low-dose CT scan annually for early detection.

Preventive measures

Here are some lifestyle changes that can help prevent lung cancer:

  • Regular exercise
  • Maintaining a nutritious diet rich in green leafy vegetables
  • Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. If you or someone you know smokes, quitting is the single most important step you can take to reduce your risk of lung cancer

To consult our experts at Aster Whitefield, contact us at 080-4510 8888.