Lung cancer in India--a perspective.
The epidemiology, aetiopathogenesis, diagnostic methods and management of lung cancer in India have been reviewed based on the published data from this country. Over the years, the incidence has been increasing and the disease is being recognized more often. Smoking is the most important aetiological factor. Beedi smoking which is a common practice in this country is equally, if not more, harmful than cigarette smoking in causing lung cancer. Tremendous improvement has been made in various diagnostic techniques. Cytological methods, fiberoptic bronchoscopy and percutaneous lung aspiration are being used more frequently. At the treatment front, although radiotherapy and chemotherapy are being used, the results are not very encouraging. Except in few cases, surgery is usually not feasible because of advanced disease. Prevention of lung cancer by anti-smoking measures should be the main goal of solving the problem in this country.
Behera
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Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh.
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007194:India / Q000453:epidemiology; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male