For men in their 20s, lung cancer is a relatively rare disease, but it is by no means a stranger. In recent years, the number of cancer patients in their 20s has been increasing, and lung cancer is no exception.
If you are in your 20s now, I urge you to read this article.
It is my desire to reduce the number of people who suffer from cancer, even if only a little.
Risk of Lung Cancer for Men in Their 20s
The risk of lung cancer for men in their 20s is lower than for men in their 40s and 50s, but still exists.
Smoking: Smoking is the biggest risk factor for lung cancer and the leading cause of cancer death for men in their 20s. The longer a person has smoked, the higher the risk of developing lung cancer.
Passive smoking: Passive smoking also increases the risk of lung cancer, so it is important to avoid passive smoking.
Air Pollution: Outdoor and indoor air pollution can also increase the risk of lung cancer.
Family history: Having a first or second degree relative with lung cancer increases the risk of lung cancer.
Occupation: Past occupational exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos, silica, and chromium increases the risk of lung cancer.
Lung Cancer Symptoms in Men in Their 20s
There are few early symptoms of lung cancer. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear, so you should always be aware of and check your condition.
Chronic cough: persistent cough or a change in the nature of the cough (e.g., from dry to sticky)
phlegm (e.g., coughing up sputum)
chest pain
Fatigue
loss of appetite
bloody phlegm
shortness of breath
Weight loss: weight loss due to loss of appetite and nausea
Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time.
If any of these symptoms persist or if you feel different from your usual feeling, it is important to seek medical attention.
Because people in their 20s are more physically active at work and in their personal lives, they may assume that these symptoms are due to a temporary problem, such as lack of exercise or stress, and ignore them. However, if these symptoms persist for a long period of time, or especially if blood phlegm is produced, it is necessary to consult a medical professional immediately!。
Diagnosis and Treatment of Lung Cancer in Men in Their 20s
Diagnosis of lung cancer includes chest x-ray, CT scan, PET scan, and biopsy.
Examination: A chest x-ray or CT scan is performed to check for abnormal shadows in the lungs.
Sputum examination (kakutan): A sputum sample, which the patient coughs up, is collected to check for the presence of cancer cells.
Tissue biopsy: A sample of cells or tissue is removed from the lungs and checked under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. This is usually done by bronchoscopy or needle biopsy.
Molecular testing: A genetic mutation of the cancer cells is examined to determine if a particular treatment may be effective.
Treatment options for lung cancer depend on a variety of factors, including the degree of progression, the type of cells, and the patient’s health status. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Preventing Lung Cancer in Men in Their 20s
The following are effective ways to lower the risk of lung cancer
Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer and the best way to prevent it is to avoid it, as smoking is the biggest risk factor for lung cancer. It is better to reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke or to not smoke in the first place.
Avoid passive smoking: Passive smoking also increases the risk of lung cancer, so avoid places where smokers are present, as other people’s cigarette smoke also increases the risk of lung cancer.
Pay attention to air quality: Air pollution can increase the risk of lung cancer. Live in places with clean air whenever possible and use a mask if necessary.
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of lung cancer, so it is important to maintain a healthy weight.
Healthy diet: Consuming antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoiding meat and processed foods can reduce the risk of cancer.
Regular Exercise: Get at least 1-2 hours of total physical activity per week. Moderate exercise strengthens the immune system and reduces the risk of cancer.
Regular Lung Cancer Screening: Men in their 20s who have a history of smoking should consider consulting a physician for lung cancer screening. Early detection is very important.
The Future of Lung Cancer in Men in Their 20s
The prognosis for lung cancer depends on a number of factors, including the degree of progression, the type of cells, and the patient’s health. However, the 5-year survival rate for patients who receive early detection and treatment is much higher than for those with more advanced disease.
The only way to reduce the risk of lung cancer as much as possible is to “quit smoking”.
Other factors also come into play, but “smoking” is sometimes said to be the major cause, so let’s start here.
Refrain from any behavior that weakens your body on its own.
Summary
For men in their 20s, the possibility of lung cancer is low, but it is better to prevent it as early as possible.
As for cigarettes, there is data showing that the longer a person smokes, the more likely he is to develop cancer, so if you have already started smoking, take action to quit in your 20s.
