World Lung Cancer Day 2025

World Lung Cancer Day 2025

Livasa Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali Focuses on Raising Awareness and Empowering Action for Early Detection and Prevention of Lung Cancer

Chandigarh 1 August ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : Lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. There were 2.4 million cases diagnosed in the year 2022. China, US, Japan and India are amongst the top 4 countries with the highest incidence of lung cancer. India is amongst the top 4 countries having highest mortality attributed to lung cancer. On this World Lung Cancer Day, Livasa Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, aims to amplify awareness and understanding about its causes, symptoms and its treatments to help individuals recognize and manage this condition effectively. 

Addressing a press conference here on Friday, Dr Sonal Consultant Pulmonary Medicine at Livasa Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali said, “One in five of all cancer deaths are attributed to lung cancer. Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, most commonly in the cells lining the air passages. It is one of the most common and deadliest types of cancer worldwide, with smoking being the leading risk factor for 80% of deaths. Dr Sonal further said, “Across the globe, experts unite to raise awareness about one of the deadliest forms of cancer, which claims millions of lives each year. Despite being preventable and treatable in its early stages, lung cancer continues to be a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide”. “The theme of this year’s  World Lung Cancer Day  focuses on the need for early detection, prevention, and increased access to care. Efforts are also being made to challenge the stigma surrounding lung cancer, as it is often mistakenly seen as a disease that only affects smokers, when in reality, non-smokers are also at risk,” elaborated Dr Sonal.Talking about Lung cancer symptoms,  Dr Kritarth Consultant Pulmonary Medicine at Livasa Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali said,“ Lung cancer often includes a persistent cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and coughing up blood. Early detection is crucial for improving the chances of successful treatment, though it can be difficult due to the absence of symptoms in its early stages. The screening plays an important role in early detection of lung cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment started at an early stage can increase 5 year survival, informed Dr Kritarth. “Treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer,” said Dr Kritarth. Dr Sonal said, “The Lung Cancer  is a global crisis with over 2.2 million new cases of lung cancer are diagnosed each year worldwide. 1.8 million people die from lung cancer annually, making it the leading cause of cancer death globally. Non-smokers account for approximately 25% of lung cancer cases, yet many individuals mistakenly believe smoking is the only cause.” Dr Sonal further explains, “Lung cancer is a multifactorial disease. While smoking remains a leading risk factor, environmental exposures, genetics, and other underlying health conditions contribute to the rising number of cases. We need to understand that anyone, regardless of lifestyle choices, can be at risk.” Research has shown that early-stage lung cancer has a higher survival rate, yet most cases are diagnosed only at advanced stages, when treatment options are limited. Screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, are proven to help detect the disease in its early stages, increasing the chance for successful treatment. Dr Kritarth adds, “Early detection through screening is one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives. Unfortunately, access to these screening programs remains a challenge in many parts of the world. On this World Lung Cancer Day, we urge governments, healthcare organizations, and communities to prioritize the implementation of wide-scale screening and education programs.” While some lung cancer cases cannot be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk. Quitting smoking, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals like radon, and avoiding secondhand smoke are among the key strategies to lower lung cancer risk.

“We are all responsible for making lung cancer prevention a global priority. Educating people about the signs and symptoms, reducing exposure to environmental risks, and encouraging regular check-ups can save lives,” Dr Sonal asserted. Dr. Pawan Kumar, CEO of Livasa Super Speciality Hospitals said , “ We at Livasa encourages individuals to remain vigilant about their lung health, particularly if they experience persistent coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss. Recognizing these symptoms early can prompt timely medical intervention”. Livasa Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali offers a state-of-the-art Interventional Pulmonology facility that focuses on minimally invasive procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of various lung conditions. These procedures are performed using advanced bronchoscopy techniques, enabling precise tissue sampling, removal of airway blockages, stent placements, and specialized treatments such as balloon bronchoplasty and argon plasma coagulation (APC). This facility plays a key role in managing complex lung cancers, airway disorders, and pleural diseases, offering patients faster recovery, less discomfort, and improved outcomes.