November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. In Frederick County, Maryland, there are about 146 new lung cancer cases each year. Lung cancer causes more deaths than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. Awareness and early detection are important for the community.
Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow and form tumors. These tumors can affect breathing and may spread to other organs. The main types are non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, and lung carcinoid tumors. Frederick Health is a Center of Excellence for Lung Cancer Care. The hospital provides information about symptoms, screening, and local treatment options.
Smoking is the main risk factor for lung cancer. It introduces harmful chemicals into the lungs and increases cancer risk. Dr. Maurice Smith, a thoracic surgeon at Frederick Health Medical Group, says early screening and treatment are important. Radon exposure is also a concern in Frederick County, which is a high radon area. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas from the soil and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S…