By Craig Magnus

 Growing rapidly to become one of the most deadliest diseases in the US, lung cancer makes up nearly one quarter of all deaths per year.  “Cancer can strike anyone or at anytime. That is why it is imperative that we stay as well informed as we can.” (Thomas Maugh II) 

 Wasn’t noticed until 1900’s  Smoking has been the worst cause

 One quarter of all deaths each year(160,000)  More than breast, prostate, and colon combined

 Normal cells experience transformation  Spread quickly  Primary/Secondary

 SCLC ◦ Less common ◦ Metastasize faster  NSCLC ◦ More common ◦ Adenocarcinoma (30-35%)

 Smoking ◦ First and secondhand  Radon exposure  Asbestos  Other

 According to Richard Bowers of the York Daily Record, "Officials estimate that active smoking is responsible for close to 90 percent of lung cancer cases while radon causes 10 percent…”

 50% greater chance of survival if quit smoking  Health complications

 Physical Health  Mental Health  Side effects

 Surgery  Chemotherapy  Radiation Therapy

 “It is becoming clear to patient advocates that the mental health of lung cancer patients -- who rarely get the positive reinforcement, unfettered support and kindness of society -- is also worth defending.” (Dvorak, Petula)

 Surgery ◦ Problems during operation ◦ Not successful  Chemotherapy and Radiation ◦ Hair loss ◦ Fatigue ◦ Heart problems

 Drugs ◦ Altima ◦ Iressa  Combination

 Very different than treatment  Best way is not smoking to begin  A lot can be done, but never guaranteed

 Other health issues  Not successful treatment  Type and stage

 Not gotten attention that it deserves  Breast cancer has been focus recently  Attention and respect are vital

 In conclusion, it is evident that lung cancer has developed into one of the worst diseases in the world.  “Cancer can strike anyone or at anytime. That is why it is imperative that we stay as well informed as we can.” (Thomas Maugh II)