05 Feb Importance of Early Detection in Treating Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lung Cancer
One of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide is lung cancer. Among the various types of lung cancer, squamous cell carcinoma is a common type that usually develops in the central part of the lungs, commonly in the bronchi, and is majorly caused by smoking. Though any type of cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, early detection can be a crucial factor as it relates to treatment options and overall survival rates. Let’s learn about the role early detection plays below.
Why is early detection important?
No one likes to think of cancer, not to mention getting tested for it. However, when it comes to this type of cancer, early detection increases the odds of a successful treatment. Let’s find out why:
- More treatment options: When this cancer is diagnosed early, patients have more options available, such as radiation, targeted therapy, and surgery. When it is detected at an advanced stage, the treatments are often limited to immunotherapy and chemotherapies, which might not be as effective in removing the disease.
- Increased survival rates: Early-stage lung cancer has a better prognosis than advanced-stage diseases. According to research, the five-year survival rate of cancer that has not spread beyond the lungs (localized cancer) is around 63% as against 7% when it has spread to distant organs. Catching squamous cell carcinoma early can mean the difference between effective treatment and a tougher battle.
- Better quality of life: There is no doubt that cancer treatment can be quite tough. However, when this cancer is diagnosed early, the treatment is usually less aggressive, resulting in fewer side effects and a better overall quality of life.
How to detect squamous cell carcinoma early
Proactive health management and awareness are the keys to increasing the chances of catching squamous cell carcinoma lung cancer early. Let’s find out more.
- Pay attention to symptoms: A tricky aspect of lung cancer is that its symptoms don’t always show up in the early stages. However, there are some warning signs that you should not ignore. Some of them include hoarseness, chest pains that worsen with coughing or deep breathing, coughing up blood even in small amounts, persistent cough that does not go away, frequent respiratory infections, unexplained weight loss, and shortness of breath.
- Get regular screenings: If you are at a high risk of lung cancer, meaning that you are someone exposed to occupational hazards such as asbestos or a long-term smoker, then you can opt for annual low-dose CT scans. According to studies, low-dose CT screening can reduce the mortality of lung cancer by about 20% in high-risk individuals.
- Never start or quit smoking: Smoking is the major cause of lung cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma. If you have never smoked, keep it that way. If you do, quitting is the best thing to do for your lungs and your overall health.
Endnote
While squamous cell carcinoma cancer is serious, it is not a death sentence, especially when you detect it early. The key is knowing the symptoms, not ignoring warning signs, and getting screened when you are at risk. While it might seem scary or even inconvenient, early detection can save your life.
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Last Updated on February 5, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD