One of the most common types of oncological diseases is lung cancer. Despite preventive measures being taken, the disease is becoming more frequent. Additionally, oncological diseases have a very high mortality rate. This is due to the absence of pronounced symptoms in the early stages. Lung cancer refers to the process of malignant tumors developing in the cells of the bronchi and lungs. The progression of the disease can last several years. Tumors can also spread to other organs.
Causes
The main cause of lung cancer is considered to be the presence of damaged cells in the respiratory organs. In a damaged cell, the DNA is altered, making it more susceptible to changes. Damage to the cells of the respiratory organs can be caused by air pollution, smoking, or working in certain industries. The inhaled air is processed by the lungs and bronchi, and each portion of polluted air affects the function of the cells. Other causes of lung cancer can include severe respiratory diseases such as bronchiectasis, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and tuberculosis.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The symptoms of lung cancer are quite vague and can characterize many diseases of the bronchi and lungs. For this reason, it is very difficult to diagnose the disease in a timely manner.
The most easily identifiable symptoms include:
- shortness of breath or unexplained breathlessness
- coughing up blood or raspberry-colored clots
- rapid weight loss without reason
- persistent chest pain.
It is important to pay attention to fever, lethargy, apathy, and loss of normal activity. Other symptoms are less noticeable. If any of the above symptoms are present, we recommend undergoing diagnostics at the Ichilov clinic, where specialist doctors and the most modern equipment will accurately determine the presence of the disease.
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer in Israel
Modern medicine has many methods for determining the presence of malignant tumors in the respiratory organs.
The main methods include:
- fluorography or X-ray
- bronchoscopy
- trans-thoracic puncture
- computed tomography
- puncture and biopsy of lymph nodes
- calculation of oncological markers in blood.
The internationally recognized Ichilov clinic also employs a new method for diagnosing lung cancer developed by Israeli scientists. This method is called the "Electronic Nose," which detects oncological diseases through a person's exhalation.
Treatment of Lung Cancer in Israel
The Israeli hospital Ichilov offers a wide range of treatment options for oncological diseases. Among them, lung cancer treatment is the top priority.
Ichilov employs three main treatment directions for oncological diseases:
- radiation therapy
- chemotherapy
- surgical treatment.
All three methods can be combined for successful treatment. Treatment prognosis is conducted by a specialist doctor after diagnostics and treatment are assigned. If metastases have occurred in other organs, additional specialists may be involved.
Prevention of Lung Cancer
Preventive measures include quitting harmful habits and timely treatment of respiratory diseases. When working with polluted air, wearing respirators and masks is recommended.