New Delhi: Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for the highest mortality rates among both men and women. Dr Digambar Behera, former head of the pulmonary medicine in PGI, says both active and passive smokers are at high risk of acquiring lung cancer and they should get themselves screened annually.
On the occasion of World Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Dr Behera said, “One of the main causes of lung cancer is tobacco use which can harm the lung tissue and affect the person’s ability to inhale oxygen. Tobacco smoke contains carbon monoxide, which can limit the oxygen intake in the blood, thereby decreasing its delivery to the organs.”
He said, “People above 50 years of age who smoke regularly should get a chest X-ray done every year. Passive smokers are also at risk. People who are exposed to high levels of radiation, arsenic, chromium, nickel, copper, asbestos also have high chances of developing lung cancer. Further, exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, particularly biomass fuel and kerosene, can damage the lungs. Some people also have a genetic predisposition for lung cancer.”
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