Keeping your lungs strong and healthy during Lung Cancer Awareness month

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women in the US and accounts for about 1 in 5 cancer deaths.

"Lung cancer is the most deadly cancer, unfortunately, amongst all cancers," said Dr. Gabriel Rivera, an oncologist with Kaiser Permanente Fresno. "It is very much tied to smoking."

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, there will be over 226,000 new cases of the illness. The disease mainly affects older adults, aged 50 to 80 years old, who have a long history of smoking.

"That means a pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 15 years," said Dr. Rivera. "They should talk to their doctor about whether they are at high risk."

Health experts say men have a 1 in 17 chance of developing lung cancer in their lifetime, while women have a 1 in 18 chance. Knowing the signs and symptoms of the disease is critical.

"It would be a productive cough, potentially a bloody cough with shortness of breath," said Dr. River, "it can be pain, significant weight loss, lack of appetite."

The American Cancer Society also reports that African American men and women have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Dr. Rivera explains that even if you quit smoking, you can still fall into the high-risk category. That's why early screening makes a difference in survival.

"It's a low-dose CT scan, typically without IV contrast, that will identify if someone has pulmonary nodules," said Dr. Rivera.

Doctors will then determine what kind of treatment plan is needed. While good eating habits and exercise can bring down your risk, doctors have this advice to keep your lungs healthy.

"The strongest thing that a person can do for themselves to prevent the development of lung cancer or be able to survive lung cancer is to quit smoking," said Dr. Rivera.

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