- Acknowledging World Cancer Day in February, Roche Media Academy through its “Empowerment through Knowledge” initiative organized a session themed “Lung Cancer: A Preventable Disease?” to raise awareness on lung cancer in the UAE, and the importance of early diagnosis
- Cigarette smoking is associated with at least 80% of all lung cancer diagnosed cases1. Evidence suggests a link between lung cancer risk and passive smoking (estimated to be 20%)
- Lack of awareness about the symptoms and causes of lung cancer leads to late detection, lowering the chances of survival
- Lung cancer is one of the leading cause of cancer deaths globally (1.59 million deaths)
- In UAE, 168 patients were diagnosed with the fatal disease in 2015
Dubai, UAE, February 10, 2016: Acknowledging World Cancer Day in February, and with the aim of raising awareness on the topic in the UAE, Roche Media Academy brought together leading medical experts and journalists in Dubai for an informative session themed “Lung Cancer: A Preventable Disease?”. They emphasized the importance of understanding the disease and being aware of symptoms to facilitate early detection and treatment, while stressing upon high risk factors such as tobacco consumption. Lung cancer is caused by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells inside one or both lungs. As they grow, the abnormal cells can form tumors and interfere with the functioning of the lung, which provides oxygen to the body via the bloodstream7. Many of these tumors tend to be malignant and spread to the other parts of the body. There are two main types of lung cancer; non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is the most commonly diagnosed type of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 85% of all cases. “The early signs and symptoms of lung cancer are non-specific and as a consequence the majority of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult and, survival outcomes poor. We often receive cases, where the patients have delayed diagnosis due to lack of knowledge on the symptoms and low awareness about the risk factors of the disease. The 5-year survival rates for lung cancer patients can be higher if it is detected and treated at an initial stage,” said Dr. Aref Chehal, Medical Oncology Consultant at Mafraq Hospital, Abu Dhabi. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer - A new cough that doesn't go away
- Changes in a chronic cough or 'smoker's cough'
- Coughing up blood, even a small amount
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Wheezing
- Hoarseness
- Losing weight without trying
- Bone pain
- Headache
Risk factors associated with Lung Cancer - Smoking: The risk of lung cancer amongst smokers is at least ten times higher than that of non-smokers.
- There is also a link between lung cancer and use of cigars, tobacco pipes, water pipes
- Occupational risks: increased risk of lung cancer amongst workers employed in certain industries which involve high-risk agents such as asbestos and combustion fumes
- Air Pollution: Extensive evidence suggests that lung cancer rates are higher in cities than in rural settings. This is likely to be caused by urban air pollution.
- Diseases as risk factors: Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis are at increased risk of lung cancer, as are those with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
“Creating awareness about the various types of cancer affecting our society is an integral part of curbing the disease’s implications in the UAE. Early detection plays a significant role in ensuring that the disease is treated at an early stage, increasing the chances of survival. At Friends of Cancer Patients, our mission is to raise awareness across the country on the causes of cancer, methods of prevention and screening, types of treatments, and the available support services in the UAE, to serve as a key resource for cancer patients, their families, and caregivers. We believe that this can only be achieved through a joint effort by all of us, with a notable role being played by the media in educating the general public,” said Dr. Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General, Friends of Cancer Patients. Analysis of cancerous cell tissue (histology) is particularly important in obtaining an accurate diagnosis. There are a variety of tests available to diagnose lung cancer such as Cytology (sample of the sputum is tested), Bronchoscopy (a visual examination of the trachea and internal parts of the lungs) and needle biopsy (Alongside a CT scan this procedure is used to obtain cells for analysis). “Our understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer has changed a lot in the last 20 years. In fact, some recent studies have reflected positive outcomes in people with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using latest therapies 9. We at Roche are committed to a future that promises a more responsive approach to the care of lung cancer patients supported by improved awareness and early diagnosis.” said Abed Sabra, Country Manager Roche UAE. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer in addition to its size, location in the lung, whether it has spread to other parts of the body or not and the overall physical health of the patient. Oncologists undertake suitable treatment path like surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and medication. More recently, new treatment options, including biological therapies, have become available and are helping to improve outcomes and survival for patients.
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