The lungs are major organs of the body and the primary organs of the respiratory system. Humans have two lungs located in the chest. Their main function is gas exchange: they take in oxygen from inhaled air and transfer it to the bloodstream while removing carbon dioxide from the blood and eliminating it through exhalation.

The lungs also contribute to the production of airflow needed for vocal cord movement during speech and play an important role in maintaining the body's acid–base balance.

The lungs contain several different types of cells, and each type can give rise to different forms of cancer, collectively known as lung cancer. Lung cancer is broadly classified into two main categories based on the characteristics and size of the cancer cells:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which includes several subtypes and accounts for the majority of lung cancer cases.
• Small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

Lung cancer is more common in males, partly because of differences in environmental and behavioral exposures, and its incidence increases with age. Globally, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men and remains the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide.

According to the Saudi Cancer Registry published by the Saudi Health Council (2024), approximately 600 new cases of lung cancer are diagnosed annually among males and females in Saudi Arabia. Lung cancer ranks as the seventh most common cancer among adult males in the Kingdom, with nearly 500 new cases reported each year.

Global Cancer Observer (2024) indicates that approximately 2.5 million new lung cancer cases are diagnosed each year worldwide, making it the most common cancer globally, particularly among males. Despite its seriousness, substantial advances have been made in treatment. The five-year survival rate can reach approximately 70% when the disease is diagnosed and treated at an early stage, decreasing to around 30% when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

Cancer is a multifactorial disease, and in many cases a direct cause cannot be identified. The body's immune system is normally capable of recognizing and eliminating abnormal cells, but this ability may weaken with age or with prolonged exposure to risk factors.

Reducing exposure to known risk factors and adopting protective lifestyle measures can help decrease cancer risk. Avoidable risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity, while protective factors include regular physical activity and a healthy diet.

• Tobacco smoking. Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogenic chemicals that accumulate in lung tissues and contribute to cancer development. Approximately 85% of lung cancer cases are linked to smoking, including cigarettes, shisha (waterpipe), pipes, and other tobacco products.
• Secondhand smoke exposure.
• Genetic mutations, hereditary factors, and a family history of cancer.
• Exposure to airborne carcinogens, fumes, environmental pollutants, and petroleum-related substances such as asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, cadmium, beryllium, tar, and soot.
• Exposure to radiation, including atomic radiation, diagnostic and therapeutic radiation, and cosmic radiation.
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.

Lung cancer screening may detect disease before symptoms develop. Annual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening is recommended for long-term smokers aged 50 to 80 years, including individuals who:

• Have smoked at least one pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years or more.
• Have smoked two packs per day for 15 years or more.
• Quit smoking within the past 15 years.

• Bronchoscopy.
• Lung or bronchial biopsy.
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan.
• Nuclear medicine imaging.
• Genetic testing.

• Persistent cough that worsens over time.
• Shortness of breath.
• Blood in sputum.
• Hoarseness of voice.
• Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Swelling of the face and neck.

• Surgery to remove the tumor or all the affected lung.
• Radiation therapy.
• Chemotherapy.
• Targeted therapy.
• Immunotherapy.

• Researchers continue to study lung cancer to better understand the disease, reduce its impact on patients, and develop more effective approaches to early detection.
• Ongoing clinical studies are investigating innovative treatment strategies that may expand therapeutic options while reducing treatment-related side effects.
• The development of targeted therapies has significantly changed the treatment of lung cancer and contributed to improved outcomes for some patients.

• Most patients can continue to enjoy life and fulfill their personal, social, and religious responsibilities by understanding their condition and learning effective coping strategies.
• Discussing the disease and potential treatment side effects with healthcare providers can facilitate better adaptation.
• Patients who undergo removal of one lung can receive support and rehabilitation to adjust to their new physical condition.
• Ongoing care and regular follow-up during and after treatment help reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence and facilitate management of treatment-related side effects.
• Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke are essential.
• Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity support overall well-being.
• Psychological resilience and emotional support can positively influence recovery, mood, and the ability to cope with loneliness, anxiety, stress, and frustration.
• Accepting temporary body changes such as hair loss can help patients adapt more effectively.
• Studies suggest that physical exercise promotes the release of endorphins, which may reduce stress and enhance both mental and physical health.
• Following physician instructions and taking medications as prescribed can contribute to optimal treatment outcomes.

The information provided above is intended solely for general health education purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider and should not be used for any purpose other than public health education.

1. National Cancer Institute. (19 October 2025). Lung Cancer.
2. Saudi Health Council. (2024). Saudi Cancer Registry.
3. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2024). Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) - Statistics Section.