Be aware of the warning signs and seek timely medical evaluation: expert
Highlighting importance of early detection in lung cancer, Dr. Ketan Dang, principal consultant–oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali urged the people, particularly smokers, former smokers, and those with prolonged exposure to air pollution or occupational hazards, and a family history, to be aware of the warning signs and seek timely medical evaluation.
City Air News
Aug 1, 2026 09:08
0
Mohali, August 1, 2026: Highlighting importance of early detection in lung cancer, Dr. Ketan Dang, principal consultant–oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali urged the people, particularly smokers, former smokers, and those with prolonged exposure to air pollution or occupational hazards, and a family history, to be aware of the warning signs and seek timely medical evaluation.
Lung cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because its early symptoms can be mild or mistaken for common respiratory illnesses, he said.
Quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke and environmental pollutants, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are among the most effective ways to reduce the risk of lung cancer, he advised.
For individuals at high risk, timely screening and regular follow-up, as advised by their doctor, can help detect the disease at an earlier, more treatable stage, he informed.
Dr. Dang further said,” Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, primarily because many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. While smoking remains the biggest risk factor, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer due to exposure to second-hand smoke, air pollution and certain occupational chemicals.”
The persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, hoarseness of voice, or recurrent chest infections should never be ignored, as early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes, he elaborated.
