Lung cancer is infamous as the deadliest of all cancers. Although this malignancy boasts of the highest rate of mortality, it can be prevented. The theme this year for the World Lung Cancer day is ‘Stop smoking-Prevent Lung Cancer'. According to data, nearly 90% of lung cancers are caused due to smoking. Endeavors planned for this World lung cancer day will focus on disseminating vital information about prevention of this chronic disease.

Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lung. Majority of people who get lung cancer have been cigarette smokers, but not all people who smoke get lung cancer. And, some people who have never smoked get lung cancer. Lung cancer can spread outside the lungs without causing any symptoms. Adding to the confusion, the most common symptom of lung cancer, a persistent cough, can often be mistaken for a cold or bronchitis.

Smokers are at high risk of becoming afflicted with cancer. Several studies have shown that the various carcinogens in the cigarette smoke cause cancer formation. Cancers are most likely to occur in organs like lungs, oral cavity which come into direct contact with smoke. When the substances delivered in cigarette smoke are absorbed and spread through the human body, smoking causes cancer at various distant sites.

Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which the cancer cells are found in the pleural area or the peritoneum. Mesothelioma has so far been an incurable cancer and once diagnosed most patients will die within a year. The link between asbestos exposure and mesethelioma is now well established. A malignant tumor of the mesothelium is called a malignant mesothelioma.

Tobacco is the second major cause of death in the world. It is currently responsible for the death of one in ten adults worldwide (about 5 million deaths each year). If current smoking patterns continue, it will cause some 10 million deaths each year by 2020. Half the people that smoke today - that is about 650 million people - will eventually be killed by tobacco.