Lung cancer, also known as bronchogenic carcinoma, is a form of cancer that originates in the lungs, and it is one of the most common types of cancer. It is also one of the leading causes of death in the world. Although any one can develop lung cancer, smokers have higher vulnerability than non-smokers.Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that destroy the cells on the lining of the lungs. These chemicals are known as carcinogens. When carcinogens enter your lungs, they immediately begin to destroy the cells. Although your immune system may correct the damage at first, repeated smoking overwhelms your immune system. Overtime, your lung cells may lose their ability to function normally, leading to cancer. Other than smoking, exposure to radon gases, secondhand smoke, and asbestos increases the chances of developing lung cancer.
There are two major types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. While the former majorly attacks heavy smokers, the latter mostly attacks non-smokers and people who smoke occasionally. Non-small cell cancers usually have similar characteristics, and they include large cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
