About 80 to 90% of lung cancer deaths are related to cigarette smoking. Globocan estimate of lung cancer in India would indicate that incidence of lung cancer in India is 70,275 (for all ages and both genders) with an age standardized incidence rate being 6.9 per 100,000 of our population. [10] This is a gross under-estimation of the actual facts.

SCREENING
If you’re a heavy smoker or a former heavy smoker, get screened for lung cancer. It is recommended to screen for current or former smokers who are ages 50–80, who have 20 pack-year histories of smoking and who either still smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. There is definitive evidence that
screening long-time smokers with low-dose spiral CT significantly reduces lung cancer deaths.

SYMPTOMS
In the early stages, there may be no symptoms. As lung cancer progresses, these symptoms may occur:

• A cough that does not go away
• Coughing up blood
• Constant chest pain
• Repeated pneumonia or bronchitis
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Hoarseness lasting a long time
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Feeling very tired all the time Talk with your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms, even if you have none of the risk factors listed.

REDUCE YOUR RISK
Do not smoke or use tobacco in any way. If you do, quit. If you’re a heavy smoker or former heavy smoker, get screened for lung cancer according to guidelines. Stay away from secondhand smoke. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Don’t rely on supplements: beta-carotene supplements may increase risk of lung cancer. Make your home and community smoke-free.