A practical general review of lung cancer

Abstract

Lung cancer, also known as lung carcinoma, is a malignant tumor that begins in the lung. Lung cancer is caused by genetic damage to the DNA of cells in the airways and is often caused by cigarette smoking or inhalation of harmful chemicals. Damaged airway cells gain the ability to multiply unchecked, causing tumor growth. Without treatment, tumors spread throughout the lungs, damaging lung function. Eventually, the lung tumors metastasize and spread to other body parts. On the other hand, lung cancer or bronchogenic carcinoma refers to tumors originating in the lung parenchyma or within the bronchi. It ranks among the primary causes of cancer-related mortality globally. It is estimated that there is an increasing rate of new cases of lung cancer worldwide annually, with an approximately high mortality rate because of lung cancer. It is worth mentioning that lung cancer was a relatively uncommon condition at the beginning of the 20th century. Its dramatic rise in later decades is primarily attributable to the increase in smoking among both males and females. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and targeted drugs. This review article describes lung cancer's causes, pathophysiology, and presentation.