6 surprising signs of lung cancer
More Americans die from lung cancer each year than from colon, breast and prostate cancers combined, according to the American Cancer Society.
It’s estimated that nearly 227,000 new lung cancer cases will be diagnosed in the United States this year. While the number of cases continue to decline, likely due to improved detection, treatment and fewer people starting to smoke, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
“The biggest modifiable risk factor for lung cancer is smoking,” explains Dr. Michael Breen, hematologist and oncologist at Advocate Health Care. “But you don’t even have to be the one smoking. Inhaling secondhand smoke can also cause lung cancer.”
He says some common lung cancer symptoms include a persistent or worsening cough, shortness of breath and chronic infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
“Not all symptoms of lung cancer are lung-related,” he says. “Many people completely overlook the other signs or believe they are related to something else going on with their health.
Early detection of lung cancer can improve your prognosis, which is why Dr. Breen urges you to reach out to your primary care provider if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Bone pain, particularly in the hips or back
- Problems with balance and/or dizziness
- Weakness or fatigue
- Chronic headaches
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
However, just because you have one of these symptoms doesn’t mean you necessarily have lung cancer. Testing is required to confirm a diagnosis.
Take a free online quiz to learn your risk for lung cancer or find a cancer expert in Illinois or Wisconsin.
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About the Author
Elizabeth Blasko is a public affairs coordinator with Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. She studied public relations and nonprofit leadership at Western Michigan University. Elizabeth previously worked at Bernie's Book Bank, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing book ownership among children.
