World Lung Cancer Day 2025: Not every lung cancer starts with a cough Doctor reveals other warning signs

By Admin

01 Aug, 2025

Every year on August 1, the world observes World Lung Cancer Day to raise awareness about one of the deadliest yet often misunderstood cancers. In 2025, the focus is sharper than ever   lung cancer is no longer just a smoker’s disease. Experts are seeing a growing number of cases among non-smokers and women, and doctors are urging people to watch out for more than just a persistent cough.

A Silent Killer on the Rise

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. But according to Dr. Hemanth G N, Consultant – Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery at Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru, the nature of lung cancer is changing rapidly. “We are now seeing more lung cancer cases in people who have never smoked. Air pollution, family history, and secondhand smoke exposure are important risk factors,” he shares.

Why Early Signs Are Often Missed

The most common form today, non-small cell lung cancer, is notorious for being silent in its early stages. Many patients are diagnosed incidentally during scans for unrelated issues. “This silent nature of lung cancer is one of the biggest challenges. Patients often come to us when the cancer has already advanced, which makes treatment more complicated,” Dr. Hemanth explains.

Symptoms Beyond the Cough

While a persistent cough (lasting more than 3 weeks) remains a classic red flag, lung cancer can manifest in less obvious ways:

• Repeated chest infections like pneumonia
  
  

• Shortness of breath even at rest
  
  

• Hoarseness or voice changes
  
  

• Unexplained weight loss or extreme fatigue
  
  

• Chest, back, or shoulder pain that lingers
  
  

• Headaches or confusion in cases of brain metastasis
  
  

“These symptoms are often dismissed as allergies, common colds, or ageing. But if they persist, they must be investigated quickly,” Dr. Hemanth warns.

The New Face of Lung Cancer

The stereotypical image of a chain-smoking patient is outdated. More non-smokers, especially women, are now being diagnosed. Urban areas like Bengaluru, where air quality is deteriorating, are seeing a spike in such cases. This underlines the need for the public to be vigilant and proactive.

Screening: A Lifesaver in Disguise

Doctors strongly recommend low-dose CT scans for those at high risk   such as current or former smokers   to detect lung cancer before symptoms emerge. “A low-dose CT scan is simple but lifesaving. For those at higher risk, it’s the best tool to catch the disease early and improve survival chances,” says Dr. Hemanth.

Listen to Your Body

Lung cancer doesn’t always start with a cough. Changes in breathing, persistent fatigue, or unexplained aches are all reasons to see a doctor. As Dr. Hemanth emphasizes, “Early detection is the key to beating lung cancer. If something feels off, don’t wait. See a doctor.”