Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Dr. Catherine Nyongesa Emphasizes Early Detection and Prevention
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and Dr. Catherine Nyongesa, Founder, Managing Director, and CEO of the Texas Cancer Center, is taking the opportunity to raise awareness about this devastating disease. Lung cancer, which begins as a growth of cells in the lungs, is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The lungs, vital organs responsible for breathing, are affected by this aggressive form of cancer.
While smoking remains the primary risk factor for lung cancer, the disease can also develop in individuals who have never smoked. The risk increases with the number of years spent smoking and the number of cigarettes smoked. However, Dr. Nyongesa highlights that it is never too late to quit smoking; even after years of smoking, quitting can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Lung cancer symptoms may include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Early detection is crucial, as identifying symptoms early can save lives and improve treatment outcomes. “Let’s spread awareness and act fast. Our reason for being is a future with no lives lost to lung cancer,” Dr. Nyongesa emphasized.
She advises anyone experiencing symptoms or concerned about their lung health to make an appointment with a healthcare professional. For smokers who have struggled to quit, Dr. Nyongesa recommends seeking support, including counseling, medication, and nicotine replacement therapies, to increase the chances of successfully quitting.
As we observe Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Nyongesa urges individuals to be proactive about their health and to encourage others to do the same. “Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any symptoms that worry you,” she said, underscoring the importance of early intervention in the fight against lung cancer.
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