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Lung Cancer Symptoms

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Know the Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer does not cause any uncommon symptoms until it has started to spread throughout the body. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is important to consult your physician as soon as possible.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer Can Include:

  • A cough that won’t go away or worsens
  • Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing or laughing
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Coughing up blood, mucus or phlegm
  • Hoarseness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unintended weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Sharing your concerns with your healthcare provider as soon as you start to notice symptoms could mean that your cancer is diagnosed at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be effective.

Senior cancer patient having vitals checked by provider

Lung Cancer Screenings Early Detection Saves Lives

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States. The disease has been closely associated with smoking since 1964, when the first Surgeon General’s report concluded that tobacco smoke was a cause of lung cancer. Today, smoking is thought to cause up to 80-90% of lung cancer cases.

Most cases of lung cancer are diagnosed in the late stages when the disease is often incurable. Doctors have found that screening for lung cancer in people at high risk of the disease can help to detect lung cancer early, which improves the chances of successful treatment. 

You will need to have a physician order for a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). To learn more about screening for lung cancer, or if you feel you are a candidate for a screening, please talk to your healthcare provider.

We're Here to Help

If you have a history of smoking or are experiencing possible lung cancer symptoms, contact your healthcare provider or call our Cancer Care team at 740-687-6900.