Guide To The Causes And Complications Of Large Cell Carcinoma

The idea of struggling to breathe, or needing assistance to breathe, is rightly terrifying, which is why lung cancer is something everyone would like to avoid. Large cell carcinoma is one form of lung cancer, and it can be devastating. It gets its name because the growths caused by this disease aren't as neat and structured-looking as the small cell version. Large cell carcinoma tends to grow and spread quickly, which means the prognosis is poor. However, the good news is we know what causes most occurrences. That means we also understand how to prevent large cell carcinoma.

Smoking

Cigarettes and other tobacco products are some of the most well-known and well-documented causes of lung cancers. Deciding not to smoke, or quitting if you smoke already, is a great way to prevent lung cancer, including large cell carcinoma. The length of time someone smokes increases their chances of developing this type of lung cancer. Smoking two packs or more per day is also a big risk factor. The great news is society is making it easier than ever to not smoke. It's not allowed at many large workplaces and public building, including schools, libraries, and hospitals. In many communities, there are also government-backed programs to put individuals on nicotine gums or lozenges. Quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke are some of the most protective measures individuals can take against developing large cell carcinoma.

Continue reading to learn how pollution in the air can affect the chances of getting large cell carcinoma.

Air Pollution

This one may come as a surprise. Air pollution is closely correlated with lung cancers including large cell carcinoma, as pollutants like soot particles, carbon monoxide, and VOCs can cause serious respiratory problems. In Western countries like the United States and Canada, we sometimes think we have air pollution under control and believe smog is a problem in the developing world. Recently, though, San Francisco's air quality has measured at the same level as Beijing's, and in fact, sometimes it's even worse. This pollution is a problem we all need to be aware of and something we all need to work to reduce. Buying electric cars and taking public transit are two ways we can work to improve air quality.

Continue reading to see how genetics might play a role in large cell carcinoma.