Lung cancer is one of the most widespread forms of cancer in the world. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent lung cancer, including lifestyle changes and screening options. In this article, the leading lung cancer doctor in Kolkata explores various ways you can prevent its onslaught.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Lung Cancer
The most effective way to prevent lung cancer is to avoid exposure to tobacco, which is the pre-eminent catalyst of the cancer. If you are a smoker, quitting is your best call to reduce your risk of lung cancer. If you don’t smoke, avoiding exposure to passive smoking is equally crucial.
Other lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk of lung cancer include:
- Eating a healthy diet containing fruits and vegetables
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins, such as asbestos and radon
Screening Options for High-risk Lung Cancer Patients
Screening can be an effective way to detect the disease early and proactively treat it. The best oncologists in Kolkata recommend annual lung cancer screening for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Fall between the ages of 55 and 80
- Have a history of heavy smoking (defined as smoking a pack a day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years)
- Are current smokers or have quit within the last 15 years
Lung cancer screening is typically done with a low-dose CT scan. When detected early, the cancer could be effectively neutralised with myriad therapies, including radiology, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or surgeries.
LDCT scans are the most precise means to detect potentially cancerous areas in the lung. The lung cancer doctors in Kolkata believe, unlike chest X-rays, yearly LDCT scans can detect the early approach of lung cancer and prevent untimely deaths.
How an Oncologist Can Help
If you are at risk of developing lung cancer or have already been diagnosed with the disease, an oncologist can help you develop a personalised prevention or treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and screening options to reduce your risk of developing lung cancer. Since lung cancer screening requires special facilities equipped with a specialised low-dose CT scanner, you will need an oncologist’s recommendation and guidance to undergo the screening.
Further on, if you are diagnosed with lung cancer, the best cancer doctors can help you navigate the various treatment options and develop a plan that is tailored to your personalised medical history. Do you run a family history of lung cancer, or have you been exposed to the risk factors? You should consult the best oncologist in Kolkata and begin your screening.
