KTTB Releases Press Statement for Lung Cancer Awareness Month and November 17 Awareness Day
Lung Cancer: A Preventable Disease That Requires Awareness and Action
November is recognized worldwide as Lung Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on raising awareness about this deadly disease. The Turkish Cypriot Medical Association (KTTB) recently released a statement emphasizing the importance of understanding the preventable nature of lung cancer and taking steps towards its prevention.
According to the KTTB, 22 percent of cancer deaths and a staggering 71 percent of lung cancer deaths worldwide are caused by tobacco use. By achieving effective tobacco control, the number of cancer cases related to tobacco use, including lung cancer, could be significantly reduced, potentially saving around 110,000 lives annually.
Quitting smoking plays a critical role in reducing the risk of developing lung cancer. The KTTB highlighted that the risk decreases by 50 percent after ten years of quitting smoking. However, it is important to understand that the risk will never decrease to the level of a non-smoker.
In addition to quitting smoking, the KTTB emphasized the importance of spreading awareness among individuals and communities about the prevention of lung cancer. This can be achieved by avoiding or discontinuing the use of tobacco and tobacco products, adopting a healthier diet, and increasing physical activity.
Early diagnosis is crucial in effectively treating lung cancer, as is the case with any form of cancer. The KTTB called for improved access to diagnostic and treatment services, as well as the implementation of screening and close follow-up procedures for high-risk groups.
In conjunction with Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the KTTB marked November 17 as Lung Cancer Awareness Day. The association aims to debunk misconceptions surrounding cancer while increasing awareness and knowledge about the disease. A significant percentage of cancers are preventable, highlighting the necessity of informing and educating people about cancer to combat this global health issue effectively.
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. With 1.69 million deaths each year, it surpasses the combined total of breast, colon, and prostate cancer deaths. The disease originates from abnormal cell proliferation in lung tissues, and if left unchecked, it can spread to other organs and tissues.
The primary risk factor for lung cancer is tobacco use. The widespread use of smoking habits has contributed to the rising number of lung cancer cases globally. Effective tobacco control measures could prevent approximately 110,000 deaths linked to tobacco use every year, including lung cancer deaths. It’s important to remember that the risk of lung cancer decreases significantly after quitting smoking, but it never reaches the level of a non-smoker.
Lung cancer can be classified into two groups based on microscopic appearance: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These two types have different growth rates, spread patterns, and treatment approaches.
SCLC, accounting for 10-15 percent of lung cancers, is characterized by rapid growth and fast metastasis. It is strongly associated with smoking, with only 1 percent of cases occurring in non-smokers. While often diagnosed at an advanced stage, SCLC responds well to chemotherapy.
NSCLC is the most common type, representing 85-90 percent of lung cancer cases. It can be further categorized into adenocarcinoma, squamous cell cancer, and large cell cancer.
Increasing awareness and understanding of lung cancer, coupled with preventative measures such as quitting smoking and adopting a healthier lifestyle, are crucial in the fight against this deadly disease. The Turkish Cypriot Medical Association urges individuals and societies to take proactive steps towards prevention and early detection, ultimately reducing the burden of lung cancer on individuals and communities.
