November is dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for lung cancer patients, the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. According to the latest data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), nearly 2.5 million people were diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022, and over 1.8 million people died from the disease. This data shows that lung cancer mortality is more than twice that of colorectal cancer, the second most common cause of cancer death.
The primary cause of this immense burden on public health is smoking, responsible for about 85% of all cases. Other risk factors include exposure to pollutants such as secondhand smoke, air pollution, diesel exhaust, fumes from welding activities, and asbestos. Throughout November, we encourage routine screenings for early diagnosis and raise awareness about prevention methods and access to quality care.
Lung fibrosis and lung cancer have a close connection, particularly in patients with **idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)**, one of the most common forms of interstitial lung disease (ILD). Here are the key aspects of this connection:
1. Increased Risk of Lung Cancer
Patients with lung fibrosis, especially those with IPF, have a significantly higher risk of developing **lung cancer** compared to the general population. Chronic inflammation and scarring in lung tissue, characteristic of fibrosis, are thought to facilitate the development of cancerous cells.
2. Common Risk Factors
There are several common risk factors that link lung fibrosis and cancer:
– **Smoking** – A major risk factor for both diseases.
– **Age** – IPF and lung cancer are more common in older patients.
– **Genetic Factors** – Mutations in certain genes may increase susceptibility to both fibrosis and cancer.
3. Mechanisms of Connection
Chronic lung damage caused by fibrosis leads to cell regeneration, which may result in atypical or malignant changes. Inflammatory processes and oxidative stress also play a role in cancer development in patients with fibrosis.
4. Challenges in Treatment
Treating patients with IPF and cancer is more complex, as chemotherapy and radiation may worsen the already compromised lung tissue due to fibrosis. The choice of therapy requires precise individual planning.
5. Prevention and Monitoring
Patients with IPF should be closely monitored for early signs of lung cancer through imaging and regular check-ups to ensure timely treatment.
This connection emphasizes the need for integrated medical care for patients with lung fibrosis, including careful monitoring for cancer and appropriate management strategies for both health issues.
