November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to pause, breathe, and talk about one of the world’s most serious yet misunderstood cancers. It is not just a ‘smoker’s disease’. Due to air pollution, secondhand smoke, and genetic factors, non-smokers are increasingly being diagnosed with the condition. The scary part? Early symptoms often feel harmless, such as a prolonged cough, shortness of breath or fatigue, but most people ignore them. But catching it early makes a big difference.This month is about spreading awareness, encouraging regular screenings like low-dose CT scans for those at risk, and reminding everyone that quitting smoking actually saves lives. Furthermore, lung health can be restored over time, good nutrition, and clean air habits. So if you’ve been ignoring your cough or skipping a health check, November is probably the best time to pay attention. Because the lungs are literally the breath of life.
At TOI we Dr. Anadhi PachauriDeputy Director and Head of Department, Surgical Oncology, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh and Dr. Arun Kumar GoelChairman of Surgical Oncology, Andromeda Cancer Hospital.
What are some early warning signs and symptoms of lung cancer that people often overlook?
Dr. Anadhi Pachauri: Many people ignore the early signs of lung cancer because they resemble common chest problems or seasonal problems. A cough that persists for several weeks, mild chest discomfort, hoarseness, or shortness of breath during daily activities can all be early signs. Some people may also notice fatigue or recurrent chest infections. Even if there are some traces of blood in the sputum, it should never be ignored and requires treatment.Dr. Arun Kumar Goel: Lung cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages because the symptoms are mild. Symptoms include a cough that lasts longer than three weeks, blood in sputum, unexplained shortness of breath, frequent chest infections, pain in the chest or back, voice changes, weight loss, and fatigue. These symptoms should always be taken seriously, especially by smokers or people living in polluted areas.
How does smoking increase the risk of lung cancer, and are non-smokers equally vulnerable?
Two experts say: Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals, many of which are carcinogens that damage the DNA of lung cells. The longer and heavier you smoke, the higher your risk of developing lung cancer. However, non-smokers are not completely safe. Long-term exposure to air pollution, secondhand smoke, or genetic factors can also cause cancer.
What is the most effective way to reduce your risk of developing lung cancer?
“The most powerful step in preventing lung cancer is to completely stop smoking. There are no safe limits. Avoid secondhand smoke, reduce exposure to air pollution and workplace chemicals, and keep your home well ventilated. Use air purifiers, clean-burning fuels, and wear a protective mask on high pollution days. People with a history of smoking should discuss an annual low-dose CT scan with their doctor for early detection. Regular health checkups and flu and pneumonia vaccinations can further support your long-term lung health. “Quitting smoking and improving air quality can effectively prevent lung damage and cancer,” advise experts.
How do diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle affect lung health and cancer prevention?
Dr. Anadhi Pachauri: Good nutrition and regular exercise make a real difference. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, fruits, and nuts, help protect cells from damage. Physical activity keeps your lungs strong and supports better oxygen flow. Avoiding processed foods, alcohol, and polluted environments can also be very helpful in maintaining lung health.Dr. Arun Kumar Goel: A balanced lifestyle is a key component of lung immunity. Include antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, green leafy vegetables, turmeric, and nuts in your diet, while reducing fried and processed foods. Spend 30 to 45 minutes daily exercising to increase your lung capacity. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and practicing deep breathing exercises such as relaxation techniques and pranayama can help your lungs become stronger.
What can former smokers do to lower their long-term lung cancer risk?
“Don’t start smoking again and get your lungs checked every year. People between the ages of 50 and 80 who have ever smoked may want to consider getting a low-dose CT scan. Along with this, eating healthy, staying active, and avoiding exposure to pollutants and other people’s smoke are some of the steps you can take. These measures will lower the risk of lung cancer in former smokers and promote good respiratory health,” recommends Dr. Goel. “It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle even after withdrawal: eat well, exercise regularly and get regular health check-ups. Discuss lung testing with your doctor, especially if you have smoked for many years. The body continues to heal over time. “Both lung function and risk steadily improve after you quit smoking,” advises Dr. Pachaury.
What is the biggest myth or misconception about lung cancer that you would like to fix?
A common belief is that lung cancer only affects smokers, but it can affect anyone. However, smoking is still the main cause. Non-smokers face risks from air pollution, secondhand smoke, and genetic factors. Another misconception is that quitting smoking does not help once the damage has occurred, which is completely false. The benefits of quitting smoking begin within a few weeks, and the risks continue to decrease with each year. Early detection offers the best chance of cure, and new treatments continue to improve survival rates. A persistent cough or shortness of breath should never be ignored, and no herbal remedy can reverse the DNA damage caused by smoking, experts say.
