About 31,000 people in Turkey were diagnosed with lung cancer in the past year, with the use of tobacco and tobacco products being the main cause, and 25,000 people lost their lives as a result, according to data from the Ministry of Health.

Based on information compiled by Anadolu Agency (AA) from the ministry’s efforts during the lung cancer awareness month observed throughout November, lung cancer ranks as the most common type of cancer in men globally and the second most common in women, after breast cancer.

Lung cancer is cited as the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide and in Turkey. In 2022, an estimated 2.5 million new cases were reported globally, with 1.8 million deaths related to the disease.

In Turkey, lung cancer is the most common cancer seen in men, affecting approximately 55 out of every 100,000 men. Among women, it ranks fifth, with an incidence rate of 11 per 100,000.

90% of men’s cases from tobacco

Tobacco and tobacco products are the most important risk factors for lung cancer. A study conducted in Türkiye found that tobacco and tobacco products are responsible for about 90% of lung cancer cases in men and 43% in women.

The incidence of lung cancer decreases as the use of tobacco and tobacco products decreases. Other notable causes of lung cancer include exposure to asbestos, heavy metals, air pollution, secondhand smoke, and environmental risk factors such as radon.

The most common symptoms of lung cancer include a persistent or worsening cough, coughing up blood or bloody phlegm, chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing or laughing, loss of appetite, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, hoarseness and difficulty of breathing.

The disease is diagnosed by physical examination, chest X-rays, computed tomography (CT), bronchoscopy, biopsy and pathological analysis. Various treatment options, including surgery, targeted therapies, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, are applied based on factors such as tumor location, stage, and patient age.

Preventive measures and early diagnosis are the most critical steps in the fight against lung cancer. WHO’s Lung Cancer Report 2023 also emphasizes that lung cancer prevention programs should focus on these two aspects.

Under the direction of the Ministry of Health, the National Tobacco Control Program aims to protect people from the harms of tobacco and tobacco products. During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, events will be held nationwide to raise awareness of the dangers of tobacco and tobacco products, the importance of avoiding these products, and promoting healthy eating and regular physical activity.

The Sabah Daily Newsletter

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