Smoking in any form — traditional cigarettes or electronic tobacco products — means inhaling harmful substances, including carcinogens, which have a negative effect on human health. One of the most serious consequences of smoking is an increased risk of lung cancer.
The risk of lung cancer rises significantly in people with a long smoking history. The “pack-year” measure is used to assess this risk: one “pack-year” equals smoking one pack (20 cigarettes) a day for one year. For example, if a person smokes two packs a day for a year, this equals two “pack-years”.
Annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is recommended for people aged 55 to 74 who have a smoking history of 30 “pack-years” or more. This also applies to those who have quit smoking within the last 15 years. For people under 50 or with a smoking history of less than 20 years, regular LDCT screening is usually not recommended.
The Oncology Center’s thoracic oncology department specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors of the chest organs, including the lungs. The team is made up of highly qualified specialists who provide patients with comprehensive medical care. Surgical procedures performed in the department include atypical (wedge) lung resections, lobectomies with mediastinal lymph node dissection, VATS lobectomies, bilobectomies, pneumonectomies, video-assisted thoracoscopy with biopsy, and mediastinoscopy with biopsy of the mediastinal lymph nodes. Core needle biopsies of lung and pleural tumors are also performed under CT and ultrasound guidance. These procedures are aimed at timely diagnosis and effective treatment of cancers of the chest organs.
🌟 The most effective way to reduce your risk of lung cancer is to stop smoking. If you smoke, it is recommended that you quit as soon as possible. It is also important to avoid secondhand smoke, which is harmful to health as well. Regular preventive checkups and consultations with your family doctor will help determine whether you need screening based on your age and smoking history. Timely diagnosis and treatment significantly increase the chances of a successful recovery.
To make an appointment for a consultation or examination, come to 31 Pryvokzalna St, Sumy.
Take care of your health and do not put off seeing a specialist at the first signs of feeling unwell 💙