LUNG CANCER: RISK FACTORS, EARLY DIAGNOSIS, AND MODERN TREATMENT APPROACHES

Abstract

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with an increasing prevalence in both developed and developing countries. It is a heterogeneous disease, primarily classified into non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), each with distinct biological behavior, prognosis, and treatment strategies. The main risk factors for lung cancer include tobacco smoking, exposure to environmental pollutants, occupational hazards such as asbestos, genetic predisposition, and chronic respiratory diseases. Early detection of lung cancer significantly improves survival rates; however, most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages due to asymptomatic or nonspecific initial symptoms. Modern diagnostic modalities, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), positron emission tomography (PET), and molecular profiling, have improved early detection and personalized treatment strategies. Current therapeutic approaches encompass surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, often applied in combination depending on cancer type, stage, and patient characteristics. Advances in molecular biology have facilitated the identification of actionable genetic mutations, enabling targeted therapies that improve treatment efficacy and reduce adverse effects. Immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized management of advanced lung cancer, providing durable responses in selected patients. Multidisciplinary care involving oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, and supportive care specialists is essential for optimal outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of lung cancer risk factors, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, and summarizes current and emerging treatment modalities. Understanding these aspects is crucial for clinicians, researchers, and public health policymakers aiming to reduce disease burden, improve patient survival, and enhance quality of life.