Did you know lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide, with nearly 1.8 million deaths annually? But what makes it so deadly is not just the disease itself, but its late detection. Many symptoms of lung cancer appear only in the later stages, when treatment becomes less effective.
However, early identification of symptoms, along with timely genetic testing, can be a game-changer. This is especially true with tools like OncoLife Lung Gene QuickScan, which identify genetic risks and help personalise your treatment plan. So, how do you know when to get tested? Let us break it down.
Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer symptoms can often mimic other respiratory issues, which makes them easy to miss. Some people may experience general symptoms of being unwell, while others may have no early symptoms at all. However, certain persistent signs should raise red flags. These include:
Chronic Cough
A cough that doesn’t go away for more than 2-3 weeks needs attention, especially if it worsens over time or sounds deeper than usual.
Coughing Up Blood
Even small streaks of blood in your sputum can be a warning sign. This is called hemoptysis and needs urgent evaluation.
Shortness Of Breath
If climbing stairs or walking short distances suddenly feels exhausting, your lungs may not be functioning properly.
Chest Pain
A dull ache or sharp pain in the chest, especially when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing, may indicate lung issues.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying, especially more than 5 kg in a few months, may be a common sign of underlying lung cancer.
Persistent Fatigue
Lung cancer can drain your energy, even if you are getting enough rest. If fatigue becomes overwhelming or constant, it should not be ignored.
Hoarseness
Lung tumours can press on nerves affecting your voice. This may lead to hoarseness and even paralyse your vocal cords.
Other Warning Signs
You may also experience these symptoms of lung cancer:
- Loss of appetite
- Wheezing
- Trouble swallowing
- Repeated pneumonia
- Swelling in the face
- Swelling in the veins in the neck
- Swelling in the chest area.
It is important to note that these signs and symptoms of lung cancer do not confirm the disease. However, they demand screening, especially in people with risk factors like smoking and family history. And in some cases, you may also want to consider genetic testing. Learn more about it in the next section.
When Should You Consider Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing is not just for people already diagnosed with lung cancer. It can also help predict risk, guide early detection, and even influence treatment outcomes. Here is when you should seriously consider it:
You Have A Family History Of Lung Cancer
If you have an immediate relative who had lung cancer, your chances of developing it increase, even if you have never smoked. A study published in the European Journal of Cancer suggests that this risk is approximately 50% independent of race and gender.
You Are A Non-Smoker With Symptom
About 10-25% of lung cancer cases occur in people who have never smoked. This usually happens due to factors like secondhand smoke or genetics. So, if you experience one or more lung cancer symptoms, get yourself tested immediately.
You Are Already Diagnosed With Lung Cancer
If you have lung cancer, your doctor may recommend a genetic test. It can pinpoint specific gene changes and drug resistance. This helps doctors choose the most effective treatments.
You Want To Take A Preventive Approach
Even if you have not been diagnosed with lung cancer, genetic testing can be a smart step. This is especially true if you have a family history, a past cancer diagnosis, or long-term exposure to harmful substances. Living in polluted areas and working in jobs like construction or firefighting may also increase your risk.
In such cases, a genetic test like the OncoLife Lung Gene QuickScan may make prevention possible.
Final Thoughts
Recognising the symptoms of lung cancer early is important for proper treatment. However, in many cases, symptoms alone are not enough. That is where genetic testing comes into play. If you or your loved ones notice persistent symptoms or have a family history, do not wait. Talk to your doctor and consider a genetic test. It could be a step that saves your life.