Facing a lung cancer diagnosis, whether it's your own or that of a loved one, can bring forth a whirlwind of emotions. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, whether you’re looking for answers for yourself or supporting someone dear to you, you’ve got an expert and caring team at HonorHealth that will support you every step of the way.
Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., and it’s natural to have questions. To help clear up the confusion, we turned to Chirag Patel, MD, a thoracic surgeon at HonorHealth Heart Care – Heart and Lung Surgery to debunk six common myths about lung cancer, to help you feel more informed and confident about this disease.
Myth: Lung cancer is not the leading cause of cancer death.
Truth: According to the CDC, more people die from lung cancer than any other cancer in the U.S.
Dr. Patel: Early detection and regular screenings are critical, especially for individuals who are at high risk or have a family history of lung cancer. A lung cancer screening can detect the disease at an earlier stage when it is more treatable, leading to potentially better outcomes and increased chances of survival.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual lung cancer screenings with CT scans for patients who:
- Have a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more
- Currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years
- Are 50 to 80 years old
Myth: Only people who smoke cigarettes are at risk for developing lung cancer.
Truth: Everyone is at risk, even if you don’t smoke.
Dr. Patel: While smoking cigarettes remains the leading cause of lung cancer, there are other factors that can put you at risk. These include exposure to secondhand smoke or asbestos, radon or certain chemicals, air pollution, a family history of lung cancer and certain genetic mutations.
Myth: Only older adults get lung cancer.
Truth: Lung cancer can develop at any age.
Dr. Patel: The risk of lung cancer increases with age, particularly after the age of 50. Although it’s more common in older adults, younger individuals in their 20s and 30s can also develop the disease. It’s important you remain vigilant and talk to your primary care provider if you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family history of lung cancer.
Myth: Lung cancer isn’t caused by e-cigarettes.
Truth: E-cigarettes do pose a potential risk for lung cancer.
Dr. Patel: E-cigarettes deliver nicotine and other harmful substances, and the inhalation of these can cause lung damage and potentially contribute to the development of lung cancer over time. While the long-term effects of e-cigarettes are still being studied, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use, particularly as it relates to lung health.
Myth: Lung cancer can’t be detected early.
Truth: Screenings provide early detection of lung cancer.
Dr. Patel: At HonorHealth Heart Care – Heart and Lung Surgery, we use leading-edge imaging tests, such as low-dose CT scans, to identify any abnormalities that may be indicative of lung cancer. It’s also important to know and recognize common signs and symptoms of the disease. Talk to your primary care provider to see if a lung cancer screening is right for you.
Myth: Lung cancer is always terminal.
Truth: While lung cancer can be a serious and life-threatening disease, it is not always terminal.
Dr. Patel: A lung cancer prognosis depends on the stage of the disease. An early-stage lung cancer diagnosis has a higher chance of long-term survival. Late-stage lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body may have a more cautious prognosis. Other factors to consider include your overall health, the type of lung cancer and treatment options.
Lung cancer screenings and treatments
Advances in medical treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapies, have improved the outcomes for many with lung cancer. At HonorHealth Heart Care – Heart and Lung Surgery, our expert team of thoracic surgeons specialize in lung cancer screenings, as well as surgical and minimally invasive procedures for lung and esophageal cancer. They will partner with you to help you get back to doing what you love as soon as possible.
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