Lung Cancer

What is it?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It often starts in the cells lining the air passages and can spread to other parts of the body. The most common types are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

What are the symptoms?

Persistent cough
Blood in sputum
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Wheezing
Hoarseness

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Chronic bronchitis
Pneumonia
Tuberculosis (TB)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Pulmonary embolism

What are the aggravating factors?

Smoking (primary risk factor)
Exposure to secondhand smoke
Radon exposure
Asbestos exposure
Family history of lung cancer

What types of food are helpful?

Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli) can help fight oxidative stress.
Healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish and flaxseeds may help reduce inflammation.
Lean protein: Chicken, tofu, legumes, and eggs for muscle maintenance and repair.

Sample Recipe: Roasted Salmon with Kale Salad

Ingredients: Salmon, kale, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, lemon.
Directions: Roast salmon and mix with a fresh kale salad dressed in olive oil, lemon, and garlic for an anti-inflammatory meal.

What are the traditional treatments?

Surgery: To remove tumors or parts of the lung.
Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: To shrink tumors or treat metastasis.
Immunotherapy: To boost the immune system to fight cancer.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Turmeric: The compound curcumin in turmeric may help reduce inflammation and inhibit cancer cell growth.
Green tea: Contains catechins that may have anti-cancer properties.
Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer.