Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally. It is estimated that more than 2 million people are diagnosed with lung cancer each year, with around 1.7 million people dying of the disease annually. Early detection and treatment of lung cancer can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. This essay will provide an overview of lung cancer symptoms and the treatments available.
Symptoms of lung cancer
The symptoms of lung cancer will generally vary depending on the type of lung cancer and how advanced it is. Common signs include a chronic cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Additional symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and recurring infections. Some people may also experience joint pain, hoarseness in their voice, and difficulty swallowing.
When it comes to treatment, the type of cancer, size, location and overall health of the patient may determine the best course of action. Surgery is often the first step, where the cancer is removed with minimally invasive techniques. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also common treatments for lung cancer. Some doctors may recommend a combination of therapies for optimal results.
Emerging cancer treatment
Immunotherapy is an emerging cancer treatment that is increasingly being used to treat lung cancer. This therapy works by helping the body's immune system recognize and fight cancer cells. Other emerging treatments include targeted therapy, photodynamic therapy and gene therapy.
In addition to these treatments, lifestyle changes can often help people with lung cancer. Eating a healthy and balanced diet, exercising regularly, and making sure to get enough rest and relaxation can help limit the damaging effects of the disease. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption is also highly recommended.
Insight into it
Ceritinib is a medication used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It belongs to a class of medications known as kinase inhibitors, which inhibit the activity of certain proteins involved in cancer cell growth. Ceritinib is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ALK-positive (anaplastic lymphoma kinase) metastatic NSCLC in patients who have not responded to or are intolerant of crizotinib, another kinase inhibitor.
Treatment through its working
Ceritinib works by binding to and inhibiting the activity of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) protein, which is mutated in certain types of lung cancer. Mutations in the ALK gene are found in approximately four to seven per cent of NSCLC patients and are associated with a worse prognosis for these individuals. By inhibiting the activity of the ALK protein, ceritinib helps to control the growth of ALK-positive NSCLC cells, allowing them to regress or even disappear.
Ceritinib is an oral medication that is usually taken once daily with food. The dosage and duration of treatment with ceritinib can vary depending on individual patient characteristics, such as body weight, age and overall health status, as well as the type and severity of cancer. Common side effects of ceritinib include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, rash and decreased appetite. Some of these side effects can be managed with supportive care, such as regular meals and fluid intake, and taking medications to control nausea and vomiting. Patients should discuss the potential side effects with their doctor prior to initiation of treatment.
Proven to be very effective
Spexib 150mg Capsule has proven to be effective in treating ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC in adults who have not responded well to or are intolerant of crizotinib. In a study of previously treated adults with advanced ALK-positive NSCLC, 78% of patients who received ceritinib experienced a reduction in tumour size and 53% of patients experienced a complete disappearance of their tumour. These results indicate that ceritinib can effectively control tumour growth and disease progression in ALK-positive NSCLC patients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of lung cancer and to seek medical attention if any suspicious symptoms are present. Treatment options vary depending on the potential diagnosis and the patient’s overall health, but surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are often used as primary treatments. There are also emerging treatments that may be used to treat lung cancer and lifestyle changes may be recommended to help reduce the damaging effects of the disease.
FAQs
The symptoms of lung cancer will generally vary depending on the type of lung cancer and how advanced it is.