Lung cancer awareness: UKZN experts launch roadshow

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close in October, attention turns to November, which is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Lung cancer remains one of the most severe cancers globally, having claimed countless lives.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, responsible for approximately 1.8 million deaths from 2.5 million new cases annually. In South Africa, it is the second-most common cancer in men and the sixth to seventh-most common cancer in women, according to data from the Cancer Association of SA (CANSA).

Cancer experts from the Multinational Lung Cancer Control Programme (MLCCP) at UKZN, working with the Department of Health and based at Addington Hospital, are embarking on a roadshow to raise public awareness about this major global health crisis.

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Social Worker Sthabile Mtolo says the disease is particularly dangerous because it often only manifests at stage four, when it is difficult to treat.

“Lung cancer is extremely dangerous because it can remain hidden until it is in an advanced stage. That is why we urge smokers, as well as those who live with smokers or reside near industrial areas where manufacturing processes produce smoke, to come forward for screening,” said Mtolo.

Lung cancer is predominantly a disease of older adults. It is rare in people under the age of 40, with the highest vulnerability and incidence occurring in individuals aged 50 to 75.

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Vaping is not safe and exposes users to cancer-causing chemicals, although long-term data on actual lung cancer rates in South Africa is still developing. Blood, urine and tissue studies show that vaping alters mouth and lung cells, causes DNA mutations, and triggers oxidative stress and inflammation, all early warning signs of cancer development.

Nurse Sinenhlanhla Zwane advises people to avoid smoking, alcohol consumption and vaping, as these are significant contributing factors to the development of cancer. Zwane notes that the disease can be difficult to detect in its early stages and therefore emphasises the importance of visiting clinics for screening.

“There are many different types of cancer, and the methods used to test for them in the blood vary. It is crucial that those going to the clinic for screening know exactly what is being tested for, as this ensures they receive the appropriate care,” explained Zwane.

You can find them at Addington Hospital’s Oncology Unit. Call them on 031 260 4232 or 069 149 9523 on WhatsApp.

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