MANILA, Philippines?Although July, lung cancer awareness month, is about to end, the C Network focuses its attention on lung cancer and how to practice vigilance, especially among smokers and those at high risk, through early detection.

Catching this cancer type is very important because of its deadly nature, with majority of patients succumbing to the disease within a few months of diagnosis, when the disease has already taken its toll in a person?s system. Worldwide, lung cancer takes its toll on both men and women, being the leading cancer insofar as mortality is concerned.

The C Network, an advocacy campaign against cancer, is aimed at fostering awareness among cancer survivors and their families to provide them a better perspective on cancer and how to improve their outlook while combating the dreaded disease. It continues to initiate activities to further create awareness and foster education on cancer prevention and treatment, in cooperation with various patient support groups, the Department of Health and the Philippine Cancer Society.

Symptoms

There are specific signs and symptoms characteristic of lung disease that if given proper care and medical attention, can spell the difference between life and death. For this month, the C Network shares this list of symptoms to look for to each lung cancer in its deadly tracks.

? Cough. Ordinarily, coughing is a defense mechanism that is used to clear the airways of mucus, inhale toxins, or a foreign body. A productive cough should result in the clearing of mucus or secretions from the airways.

However, a persistent or worsening cough that is accompanied by a high fever, dyspnea, or bloody or copious sputum requires immediate medical attention. Coughing is one of the most common lung disease symptoms.

? Shortness of breath. Also known as dyspnea, this may be noticed when one has a problem with the respiratory system, heart disease, anxiety, or other condition. Sudden bouts of shortness of breath, particularly if it is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, may indicate disease, and should be evaluated by a doctor immediately. Shortness of breath is not a natural part of aging. It should be taken seriously and reported to your doctor.

? Wheezing. This is a high-pitched sound produced while inhaling or exhaling. It occurs when airways are narrowed or obstructed by abnormal tissue or inflammation, excessive secretions or mucus, or when a foreign material has been inhaled and is obstructing the airways. Wheezing may also be a signal that a lung condition is worsening.

? Chest pain. This generally indicates a problem in the lungs, pleura, or muscles and bones of the chest wall. The problem may be minor or severe, or even life-threatening, and may be constant or experienced only during inhalation. Pain in the chest may indicate infection if it is accompanied by cough or fever. If you are experiencing chest pain, you should immediately seek medical attention.

? Hemoptysis. This is a condition characterized by coughing blood. The blood may appear as pinkish froth, mucus with a bloody streak or clot, or pure blood. It may occur as a result of a persistent cough or it may indicate a serious lung disease. If you are experiencing hemoptysis, you should consult your doctor immediately. Hemoptysis is a serious lung disease symptom.

? Cyanosis. This is when the skin becomes bluish or purplish, most apparent around the lips and nail beds. It is a sign that the blood is not receiving enough oxygen. Cyanosis may appear suddenly as a result of acute lung disease or slowly as lung disease progressively worsens.

? Swelling. Many times, the heart and lungs produce similar symptoms because many disorders affect both organs. When the arms, legs and ankles swell, these may indicate lung disease. Swelling is typically associated with heart disease and accompanied by shortness of breath.

? Respiratory failure. This is the most severe sign of lung disease, acute or chronic. Acute respiratory failure may be due to massive infection, lung inflammation, cessation of the heartbeat, or severe lung disease. Chronic respiratory failure is when the lungs cannot oxygenate the blood and/or normally remove carbon dioxide.

Millions of people are diagnosed every year with a lung disease, while many more may go undiagnosed. A lung disease may be a prelude to lung cancer so it is important to take heed of these symptoms to prevent further health deterioration. If you believe you may have a lung disease, you should contact your doctor immediately.

The C Network distributes Lung Cancer Patient Information Kits for Free. For more information, visit its website at www.cnetwork.org.ph.