Bengaluru oncologist warns lung cancer is rising among non-smokers; ‘may appear as dry cough, fatigue, or weight loss’

Oncologist Dr Satheesh warns of rising lung cancer cases among non-smokers in India, attributing it to pollution and indoor smoke. 

 Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, with 64 percent survival rates for early detection but only 8 percent for advanced stages. It accounts for an estimated 2 million diagnoses and 1.8 million deaths, as per the National Institute of Health.

Now, with growing pollution and other lifestyle changes, the risk of lung cancer is also increasing. HT Lifestyle reached out to Dr Satheesh CT, senior consultant, medical oncology, HCG  Cancer Hospitals, K R Road, Bengaluru, to shed light on why there is a prevalence of cancer, particularly among non-smokers. “Not every cough is harmless, and not every lung cancer story begins with a cigarette,” the oncologist in turn cautioned.

Why is lung cancer rising among non-smokers?

Shedding light on the fact that lung cancer  is not confined to smokers only, Dr Satheesh warned, “Across the country, a greater number of non-smokers are being diagnosed with lung cancer, highlighting a concerning trend in the country’s cancer landscape.”

The oncologist stated that the reason is that homemakers are exposed to kitchen smoke, children, and people commuting to the workplace, all of whom breathe in polluted air. “The PM2.5 has the tendency to enter our bloodstream, making our organs exposed and vulnerable to carcinogens,” he added. 

Lung cancer cases among non-smokers are rising in India, with approximately 25-40 percent of cases occurring in non-smokers. Therefore, this sudden shift in the increasing influence of air pollution, second-hand smoke, and genetic predisposition is driving the increase in the number of cases amongst non-smokers.

What this means in practical terms for caregivers and patients

• Recognise early warning signs

Dr Satheesh highlighted that in the case of non-smokers, lung cancer may appear as a persistent dry cough, breathlessness on exertion, unexplained fatigue, or chest discomfort and weight loss, while in smokers, it may vary with coughing up blood, wheezing and recurring infections.

“As a caregiver, if such symptoms persist beyond a usual cold/flu, especially in someone exposed to pollution or indoor smoke, seek a specialist opinion,” he advised.

• Choose a treatment centre and test wisely

Next, he recommended, “Non-smoker lung cancer may benefit more from targeted therapies (e.g., those aimed at genetic mutations) than traditional treatment alone. Ask whether the oncologist checks for gene mutations (EGFR, ALK, etc) and whether contemporary management pathways are available.”

Promote preventive and protective habits

Although one cannot reverse genetics, one can reduce exposure, according to the oncologist. He suggests:

• Good kitchen ventilation and safer cooking habits help keep indoor air clean and protect your family from lung-related diseases, including cancer.
• Limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high and wear a mask when outdoors or in polluted areas. This can significantly reduce exposure to harmful air pollutants and lower the risk of lung cancer.
• Keeping homes smoke-free is crucial, as non-smokers living with smokers are at a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer due to second-hand smoke exposure.
• Encourage overall lung health: regular check-ups, prompt attention to respiratory symptoms, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity.

Lastly, Dr Satheesh warned, “Lung cancer in India is no longer a smoker’s disease. The growing number of non-smoker cases marks a quiet but crucial shift, one that calls for awareness, not alarm.”

“The air we breathe, the fuels we use, the homes we build, and how quickly we respond to persistent coughs or breathlessness all shape our lung health. Small, mindful actions can make a big difference: noticing symptoms early, seeking a specialist’s opinion, and choosing cleaner habits at home,” he added.

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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7 signs that a heart attack may happen soon

The narration around heart attack that it increases one's proximity to death, scares all. The fear around this disease is so intense that people panic in such situations, and thus make it even more aggressive. Heart attack kills close to 18 million people everyday and as per experts several of these deaths could have been averted if timely medical help was provided to the patients.

This makes it imperative to understand the signs of heart attack, the signals the body gives before the onset of this life threatening disease so that one can take precautions on time.

Unusual chest discomfort in the center or left side

You might experience discomfort in the center or left side of your chest. This discomfort can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. In simple words it might feel like an elephant sitting on your chest or like a tight band around your chest. This happens because the heart muscle needs a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. When this supply is reduced or blocked, it can cause chest discomfort. If this discomfort lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back, seek medical attention immediately.

You might feel like you can't catch your breath

This might occur with or without chest discomfort. You might feel like you can’t catch your breath, or you might feel unusually winded even after minimal exertion. This happens when your heart isn’t pumping effectively, making it hard to breathe. Try to identify if the shortness of breath is sudden and severe or gradually worsening over time. If you find yourself unusually breathless, especially with chest discomfort, don’t ignore it. Contact a healthcare provider or go to the emergency room.

 

Pain in arms, jaw

This discomfort might radiate to your arms (often the left), back, neck, jaw, or stomach. It might feel like aching, heaviness, or pressure. Track where you feel pain and note if it spreads. Keep an eye out for unusual patterns, like pain starting in one area and moving to another. If you experience discomfort in these areas, especially if it’s combined with chest pain or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.

Nausea or light-headedness

You might feel nauseous or dizzy, which can sometimes be mistaken for other issues like indigestion or a simple cold. Reduced blood flow to the heart can also affect other systems in your body, leading to gastrointestinal issues or dizziness. Monitor if these symptoms are accompanied by other signs like chest pain or shortness of breath. If you feel nauseous or light-headed, particularly if you’ve also experienced other heart attack symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional.

Excessive sweating

You might sweat profusely, even if you’re not exerting yourself. This sweating can be cold and clammy, unlike normal sweating from exercise or heat. Your body might react to the stress of a heart attack with excessive sweating as a way to cope with the increased stress on your cardiovascular system. Compare this sweating to what you’d normally experience. Is it out of the ordinary for you? If this excessive sweating occurs alongside other symptoms, it’s important to get medical help right away.

 

 Sudden fatigue

You might feel unusually tired, weak, or fatigued, even if you haven’t done anything strenuous. Your heart’s reduced efficiency can make it harder for your body to get the oxygen and nutrients it needs, leading to overwhelming tiredness. Track how this fatigue compares to your usual energy levels. Note if it comes on suddenly or gradually worsens. If you experience unexplained fatigue along with other symptoms, consider it a serious sign and seek medical advice.

An unsettling feeling

You might experience an overwhelming feeling that something terrible is about to happen. This sensation can be quite unsettling and intense. This feeling can be related to the body's stress response during a heart attack, which may include anxiety or a sense of impending danger. Reflect on whether this feeling is new or if it’s accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain or discomfort. If this feeling comes with other heart attack symptoms, it’s crucial to get emergency medical help.

What should you do?

• Familiarize yourself with these symptoms and how they might present themselves in different ways.
• If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone else, try to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation worse and cloud judgment.
• Don’t wait to see if symptoms improve. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Time is crucial in treating heart attacks.
• Understand your personal risk factors, such as family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or diabetes. This knowledge can help you make proactive health choices.
• Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help you stay on top of your heart health and address any potential issues before they become serious.
• Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, and managing stress are key to maintaining heart health.
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This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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What is Drug-Resistant TB? Symptoms and Prevention

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial disease that spreads via air from person to person. TB most commonly affects the lungs, but it could also affect other regions of the body such as the brain, kidneys, or spine. Most cases of tuberculosis are treatable and curable; nonetheless, people with tuberculosis can die if they do not receive effective treatment.

It is well-known that it can take up to 6-9 months to complete the medicinal course. However, due to the length of its treatment, many leave it mid-way, which can later lead to drug-resistant TB.

Drug-resistant tuberculosis arises when germs grow resistant to the medications used to treat tuberculosis. This signifies that the medicine no longer has the ability to kill tuberculosis germs.

Because this variety of tuberculosis is resistant to the most strong TB medications, patients are left with far less effective treatment alternatives.

How is Drug-resistant TB spread?

Drug-susceptible and drug-resistant tuberculosis spread the same way. When a person with tuberculosis of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings, TB bacteria are released into the air. Depending on the circumstances, these bacteria can remain in the atmosphere for several hours. People who breathe in air contaminated with tuberculosis germs can get ill.

It is not possible to transfer tuberculosis through shaking someone’s hand, eating food or drink, touching bed sheets or toilet seats, sharing toothbrushes, or hugging.

What are the symptoms of TB?

Feelings of illness or weakness, weight loss, fever, and night sweats are all common signs of tuberculosis. Coughing, chest discomfort, and coughing up blood are all indications of TB illness of the lungs.

The symptoms of tuberculosis in various sections of the body vary depending on the place affected. If you have any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor or your local health department.

Prevention

The most essential strategy to avoid the spread of drug-resistant tuberculosis is to take all TB medications exactly as advised by your doctor. There should be no missed doses, and therapy should not be discontinued prematurely.

Another strategy to avoid drug-resistant tuberculosis is to avoid being exposed to known drug-resistant tuberculosis patients in confined or congested areas such as hospitals, jails, or homeless shelters. People who work in hospitals or healthcare settings where tuberculosis patients are likely to be seen should seek advice from infection control or occupational health specialists.

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement