Lung cancer is characterized by out-of-control cell growth that begins in one or both lungs. It is the second most common cancer in women (after breast cancer). According to the American Cancer Society, there are about 100,000 new cases of lung cancer in women each year. This disease is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women.
Considerations
Symptoms of lung cancer vary depending on the size of the tumor, where the cancer is located and where it has spread. Very early in the disease, you may not have any symptoms, and it may take years before symptoms appear.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Some early lung cancer symptoms resemble other common illnesses. Examples of these symptoms are fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Early signs and symptoms include a persistent cough, pain in the back and shoulders, difficulty breathing and hoarseness of the voice. You may have chronic bronchitis or pneumonia, or you may cough up blood. You may notice changes in the color of sputum.
Advanced Signs and Symptoms
Advanced signs and symptoms occur when the cancer spreads to other parts of your body. Lung cancer can metastasize to the bones, liver or brain. At this stage, you may develop headaches, vertigo or seizures. The liver may become enlarged, resulting in jaundice. Bones may become brittle and frequently break. As the disease continues to spread, more of the body's energy is used, and you may become extremely tired and weak. You may develop a fever or have problems with cognitive functions and memory.
Smoking and Lung Cancer
Smoking remains the No. 1 risk factor for developing lung cancer. Your risk of developing lung cancer increases with the amount you smoke and the number of years you have smoked. According to the Mayo Clinic, current or former women smokers have a greater risk of developing lung cancer than men who smoke the same amount. It is unclear why this is true. Changes in a smoker's cough are a possible sign of lung cancer and should be reported to your doctor.
Significance
According to the American Cancer Society, more people die of lung cancer than breast, colon and lymph cancer combined. The chances of a woman developing lung cancer in her lifetime are about one in 16. If you are concerned that you may have some of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, see your doctor.
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