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Sinar Daily
03-08-2025
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Lung cancer survival doubles with advances in modern therapies, says expert
KUALA LUMPUR - Lung cancer, long known as a 'silent killer' and consistently among the top three causes of cancer-related deaths in Malaysia, is now seeing a shift in outlook. Clinical Oncologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), Dr David Lee Dai Wee said, thanks to advances in modern therapies, patient survival rates are doubling, offering new hope where it was once scarce. While tobacco smoking is responsible for around 80 per cent of lung cancer cases, exposure to secondhand smoke, hazardous substances such as asbestos and coal, as well as genetic predisposition, also contribute significantly to the disease's risk profile. - Bernama file photo for illustration purpose only He highlighted that nearly 60 per cent of lung cancer patients in Malaysia are only diagnosed at stage four, the most advanced stage, with a five-year survival rate of less than 15 per cent, according to the National Cancer Registry. "In the early stages, such as stage one or two, patients often experience no symptoms at all. As a result, lung cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage when symptoms begin to appear. These may include a persistent cough lasting two to three weeks or longer,' he told Bernama. Other symptoms may include coughing up blood (hemoptysis), chest pain during breathing, shortness of breath and unexplained weight loss, said Dr Lee, adding that the spread of cancer to other organs may also cause pain in different parts of the body. He noted that while tobacco smoking is responsible for around 80 per cent of lung cancer cases, exposure to secondhand smoke, hazardous substances such as asbestos and coal, as well as genetic predisposition, also contribute significantly to the disease's risk profile. Dr Lee also highlighted that 20 to 30 per cent of lung cancer patients in Asia are non-smokers, challenging the common misconception that only smokers are affected, a belief that may lead patients or primary care doctors to delay further testing to determine whether symptoms are related to lung cancer. "But now, due to advances, firstly in molecular pathology, we are able to run this test called Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), which allows us to read the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) of the cancer cells and understand them better. "And this has significantly improved treatment for this type of cancer. So, for example, let's say in a hundred patients of lung cancer that I see, about 50 per cent have this genetic change called Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutation,' he said. Dr Lee said that while conventional treatments often result in a life expectancy of less than a year, newer therapies, including more convenient options such as oral targeted tablets, can now extend survival to as long as three years. "Another example is the use of immunotherapy, which is administered through an intravenous drip. It works by revealing cancer cells that have become adept at 'hiding' from the immune system, helping the body to recognise and destroy these harmful cells,' he said. He explained that one of the advantages of modern therapies, such as immunotherapy, is their tolerability, with nearly 80 per cent of patients experiencing minimal side effects and avoiding issues like hair loss or vomiting. However, he pointed out that the biggest challenges to personalised cancer treatment in Malaysia remain limited access to advanced technologies and high costs, as many of these drugs are not listed in the national formulary and are not subsidised in public hospitals. "So imagine if a patient is living in the rural areas and they need this NGS test. They need their lung cancer tissue to be sent to a lab in Kuala Lumpur,' he said. These challenges often lead to delays in initiating treatment, a critical concern in lung cancer care, where early intervention significantly improves disease control and outcomes. As such, he emphasised the importance of shared decision-making between oncologists, patients and their families to tailor each treatment plan, with the goal of not only extending survival but also maintaining the patient's quality of life. "Because not every patient is the same, treatment decisions are largely based on the patient's age, fitness level, stage of the disease, and molecular (DNA) subtype. Through NGS (genetic) testing, we can be more precise in targeting the cancer cells, with safer treatment options,' he said. He emphasised that treatment decisions should go beyond simply extending life, as the ultimate goal is to help patients maintain a good quality of life, enabling them to return to work, spend time with loved ones and lead fulfilling lives. Dr Lee is the first Malaysian to receive the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) Academy Award 2024, a milestone since the award's inception in 2017. He was also honoured with the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) International Development and Education Award (IDEA) 2024 in Chicago, United States. - BERNAMA
News18
01-08-2025
- Health
- News18
Lung Cancer Myths, Risks And Signs, Doctor Shares Key Facts You Must Know
Last Updated: Lung cancer is an escalating health crisis in India, caused not just by smoking but also by air pollution, genetic predisposition, and occupational hazards. Each year on August 1, the world observes Lung Cancer Day to raise awareness about the disease and defeat the stigma associated with it. According to GLOBOCAN 2020 data by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), lung cancer remained the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in 2020, accounting for an estimated 1.8 million deaths, about 18% of all cancer fatalities, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). In India too, Lung cancer is a serious public health issue, taking thousands of lives each year and affecting both smokers and non-smokers alike. According to the Indian Journal of Medical Research (2025), the number of cases in India is expected to rise from 63,807 in 2015 to 81,219 cases in 2025 It's Not Just A Smoker's Disease While smoking is the most widely known cause of lung cancer, in India, a growing number of non-smokers are being diagnosed due to environmental triggers. Dr. Mohit Sharma, Clinical Director & HOD- Medical Oncology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad, highlights that the most common misconception about lung cancer is that only smokers develop lung cancer. 'While smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer, many times, non-smokers develop lung cancer because of environmental factors, secondhand smoke exposure, genetic mutations, radon exposure, etc," Dr Sharma says. He also notes that due to this myth, timely diagnosis in non-smokers is often put off, because early symptoms are dismissed as minor respiratory issues. 'Many people still consider lung cancer solely a smoker's disease, which is dangerous in that it fosters a false sense of security in non-smokers. Because of this misconception, many people without smoking experiences will often delay getting a checkup or diagnosis, allowing the disease to progress without medical treatment," Dr Sharma adds. As per the National Cancer Registry and GLOBOCAN 2020, India reported 85,221 new lung cancer cases and 70,264 deaths in 2020, with an age-standardised incidence rate of 7.3 per 100,000. Smoking is still the major contributor, responsible for around 60–70% of male cases and a significant portion among females. However, among Indian women, lung cancer doesn't feature among the top five cancers, indicating that other risk factors are at play. Air pollution, secondhand smoke, and workplace exposure to carcinogens are increasingly affecting non-smokers. Link Between Air Pollution and Lung Cancer in India Air pollution, especially fine particulate matter known as PM 2.5, is a key risk factor for lung cancer in India, particularly among non-smokers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) categorised outdoor air pollution and PM2.5 as Group 1 carcinogens in 2013, directly linking them to lung cancer. PM2.5 particles are tiny (less than 2.5 microns), allowing them to reach deep into the lungs, where they cause inflammation and DNA damage that can result in cancer. Urban centres like Delhi-NCR frequently suffer from 'severe" air quality, with AQI levels above 350 due to vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and biomass burning. A 2023 study in Scientific Reports showed a strong link between worsening air quality and rising lung cancer deaths in India. Predictive models were able to estimate pollution levels with 81–98% accuracy. The Global Burden of Disease 2019 report found that 15% of global lung cancer deaths can be attributed to PM2.5 exposure, with India being one of the worst-affected regions. In parts of Asia, including the Western Pacific, the connection between air pollution and lung cancer is especially strong. Research from the Francis Crick Institute revealed that EGFR-mutant lung cancer is more common in areas with high PM2.5 levels, putting non-smokers with genetic vulnerabilities at even greater risk. Symptoms Lung cancer often shows no signs until it reaches an advanced stage, making early detection difficult. The common symptoms include: These symptoms usually develop slowly and are frequently confused with tuberculosis (TB) or other chronic lung diseases. As a result, diagnosis is often delayed. The Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry reports that 70% of patients in India are diagnosed at an advanced stage (35% locally advanced and 35% with metastasis), which greatly reduces the chances of survival. How Symptoms Are Often Missed Or Misunderstood Lung cancer symptoms are commonly confused with other respiratory issues. In India, air pollution worsens asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while TB remains a prevalent diagnosis. Dr Sharma says, 'The diagnosis of lung cancer is often delayed because patients with symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent or worsening cough, persistent fatigue, or unexplained shortness of breath, often attribute their symptoms to trivial conditions such as asthma or allergies." 'Perhaps, the most concerning phenomenon is that many patients seeking help from a medical professional only do so after the symptoms worsen – thus leading to late-stage diagnosis of lung cancer when treatment becomes more challenging," he adds. Many people seek medical help only after more serious signs, such as coughing up blood or major weight loss, appear—by which time the disease may be advanced. How Early Detection Saves Lives Dr Sharma highlights that an early-stage lung cancer is most treatable, and screening is an important factor in detecting the disease at an early stage. Detecting lung cancer early greatly improves survival rates. Globally, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer is between 10–20%, but early detection can significantly improve outcomes. In India, lung cancer is the fourth most common cancer, and with a high mortality rate (5.3 per 100,000), early diagnosis is especially crucial. 'Screening is highly recommended for people aged 50 and older with a history of heavy smoking or long-term exposure to certain exposures, such as pollutants (e.g., asbestos) or a family history of lung cancer," Dr Sharma says. Dr Sharma advises individuals at higher risk to take an annual screening for lung cancer via low-dose CT scans, which have been shown to have the potential for earlier stage detection and subsequent treatment. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are highly effective in spotting lung cancer in people who show no symptoms but are considered high-risk, especially those aged 55–80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history or who quit recently. What Lifestyle Changes Can Lower A Person's Risk Of Lung Cancer? Dr Sharma explains that a few healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the chances of developing lung cancer. 'Stopping smoking and stopping environmental tobacco smoke like secondhand smoke are the most critical," he adds. He adds that staying active, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limiting alcohol intake can help lower the risk. Avoiding exposure to air pollution, radon, and workplace carcinogens also plays a key role in reducing risk and supporting overall lung health. Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco: Quitting smoking is the single most effective way to reduce lung cancer risk. According to the ICMR, quitting before age 50 can reduce risk by half within 10–15 years. Avoiding smokeless tobacco (like chewing tobacco or pan) and hookah is equally important, as both beedis and cigarettes pose high risks. Limit Secondhand Smoke Exposure: Encourage those around you to quit smoking, and steer clear of smoky areas. Secondhand smoke increases a non-smoker's lung cancer risk by up to 20%. Reduce Exposure to Air Pollution: Avoid going outdoors when AQI levels are dangerously high (e.g., above 300), especially in polluted cities like Delhi. Wear N95 masks, use indoor air purifiers, and maintain good ventilation at home. Exercise Regularly: Staying active strengthens lung function and boosts overall health. Even indoor workouts during high pollution periods can lower cancer risk by improving immunity, as per Hindustan Times. Avoid Harmful Workplace Exposures: Workers in construction, mining, or industrial jobs should use proper safety gear to protect themselves from asbestos, coal dust, and other carcinogens. Get Regular Health Check-Ups: Routine screenings for high-risk individuals—such as those with a family history or living in highly polluted areas—are vital for early detection. The Times of India stresses that knowing symptoms and accessing LDCT scans can be life-saving when facilities are available. Progress In Lung Cancer Treatment top videos View all Dr Sharma notes that lung cancer treatment has advanced significantly in recent years. Newer options like immunotherapy and targeted therapies offer more personalised, effective care with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. 'Liquid biopsies have facilitated more timely genetic mutation detection and, as a result, therapy selection. All of the above have contributed to higher survival rates and quality of life for many individuals," he adds. About the Author Surbhi Pathak Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 01, 2025, 08:00 IST News explainers Lung Cancer Myths, Risks And Signs, Doctor Shares Key Facts You Must Know Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Barnama
30-07-2025
- Health
- Barnama
Lung Cancer Survival Doubles With Advances In Modern Therapies, Says Expert
Clinical Oncologist Dr. David Lee during an exclusive interview in conjunction with World Lung Cancer Day at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City. KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Bernama) -- Lung cancer, long known as a 'silent killer' and consistently among the top three causes of cancer-related deaths in Malaysia, is now seeing a shift in outlook. Clinical Oncologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), Dr David Lee Dai Wee said, thanks to advances in modern therapies, patient survival rates are doubling, offering new hope where it was once scarce. He highlighted that nearly 60 percent of lung cancer patients in Malaysia are only diagnosed at stage four, the most advanced stage, with a five-year survival rate of less than 15 percent, according to the National Cancer Registry. 'In the early stages, such as stage one or two, patients often experience no symptoms at all. As a result, lung cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage when symptoms begin to appear. These may include a persistent cough lasting two to three weeks or longer,' he told Bernama. Other symptoms may include coughing up blood (hemoptysis), chest pain during breathing, shortness of breath and unexplained weight loss, said Dr Lee, adding that the spread of cancer to other organs may also cause pain in different parts of the body. He noted that while tobacco smoking is responsible for around 80 percent of lung cancer cases, exposure to secondhand smoke, hazardous substances such as asbestos and coal, as well as genetic predisposition, also contribute significantly to the disease's risk profile. Dr Lee also highlighted that 20 to 30 percent of lung cancer patients in Asia are non-smokers, challenging the common misconception that only smokers are affected, a belief that may lead patients or primary care doctors to delay further testing to determine whether symptoms are related to lung cancer. 'But now, due to advances, firstly in molecular pathology, we are able to run this test called Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), which allows us to read the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) of the cancer cells and understand them better. 'And this has significantly improved treatment for this type of cancer. So, for example, let's say in a hundred patients of lung cancer that I see, about 50 percent have this genetic change called Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutation,' he said.
Barnama
28-07-2025
- Health
- Barnama
MOH To Launch Op Selamat PaPa On Aug 1
KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Health (MOH) will launch the Op Selamat Paru-Paru (Op Selamat PaPa) on Aug 1 to strengthen enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), particularly involving electronic cigarettes or vape, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the operation not only aims to protect men, who make up the majority of smokers, but also women and other family members exposed to second-hand smoke or passive smoking. 'Data from the National Cancer Registry shows that 8,091 cases of lung cancer were recorded between 2022 and 2023, involving 5,251 men and 2,840 women,' he said when replying to a question from Datuk Ahmad Saad (PN-Pokok Sena). Dzulkefly said the MOH welcomes and supports the decision by several state governments not to renew licences for premises selling vape products. Replying to a supplementary question from Young Syefura Othman (PH-Bentong), he said the ministry is reviewing an immediate ban on the use of open systems that allow vape liquids to be modified or contaminated with illicit substances. 'As of June 2025, a total of 58 investigation papers have been opened, and nearly 70 per cent of them tested positive for illicit substances in vape liquids, including methamphetamine and synthetic cannabinoids,' he said. Dzulkefly told a press conference later that the ministry is studying in detail the move towards a total ban on the use and sale of vapes in Malaysia. 'Act 852 is a regulatory law and does not address the issue of prohibition, so if a ban is to be implemented, it must be based on a new proposal,' he said. He added that any proposal for a full ban would take into account various factors, including scientific evidence, Electronic Cigarette or Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) cases, legal aspects, implications for industry and the economy, as well as enforcement effectiveness.
IOL News
15-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Urology Hospital offers free life-changing procedures for public patients this Mandela Month
Access to urologists and modern technology is often out of reach for many, yet early treatment can drastically improve outcomes. Image: Los Muertos Crew/ Pexels Annually on July 18, individuals worldwide and across South Africa observe Nelson Mandela International Day by dedicating 67 minutes to acts of community service and kindness, honouring his remarkable legacy. These 67 minutes commemorate each year of Mandela's relentless struggle for justice, equality, and human rights. However, at the Urology Hospital in Pretoria, a significant initiative is proving that Mandela Day can catalyse long-term change in men's health, especially regarding prostate cancer treatment. This Mandela Month, Urology Hospital in Pretoria, Africa's only Urology Centre, is doing exactly that. From July 14 to 18, the hospital's doctors and staff will open their theatres to perform free life-changing urological procedures for men from public hospitals who have often been waiting for months for the chance to receive this level of care. Now in its third consecutive year, the Mandela Week Surgical Marathon is a partnership between Urology Hospital and African Synergy Health (ASH), a non-profit organisation working to close South Africa's healthcare gap. Together, they are proving that Mandela Day is more than a moment; it can be a movement. Why prostate cancer can't wait 'Prostate cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among South African men,' explains Dr Dirk Ligthelm of Urology Hospital. 'Many patients rely on the public sector and often wait a long time for specialised care. For us, using our skills to offer timely treatment during Mandela Week is deeply meaningful.' Statistics from the National Cancer Registry show that prostate cancer accounts for around one in five of all male cancers diagnosed in the country. Early treatment can drastically improve outcomes, but access to urologists and modern technology is often out of reach for many. That's where Urology Hospital comes in. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Statistics from the National Cancer Registry show that prostate cancer accounts for around one in five of all male cancers diagnosed in the country. Image: Alex Green/pexels With more than 12 years' experience in robotic surgery and being the first in South Africa to introduce the da Vinci robotic system, the hospital combines advanced technology with a compassionate, patient-centred approach. The road to free care: how patients are chosen Some might wonder: can anyone walk in and get free treatment during Mandela Week? The short answer is no. All patients are identified and referred by African Synergy Health, which works closely with public hospitals to find those who most urgently need urological procedures but have limited access. 'This ensures that help goes to those who truly need it most, says Dr Francois Boezaart of Urology Hospital. Our doctors feel deeply connected to this mission. Mandela Day is a chance to do what we do best, but for those who usually wouldn't have the chance.' Interested patients or referring clinicians must contact African Synergy Health directly to understand eligibility and referral processes. What can patients expect: Healing with dignity When selected patients arrive at Urology Hospital, they're welcomed by a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and support staff who treat every person with the respect, compassion, and attention they deserve. The process is smooth and supportive. Pre-operative assessments to ensure readiness. State-of-the-art procedures (with 12 years of robotic surgery experience, the hospital was the first in South Africa to introduce the da Vinci robotic system). Personalised post-op care and follow-up, so healing continues long after Mandela Week ends. While the Mandela Week Surgical Marathon spotlights this effort, giving back isn't new for Urology Hospital. Over the years, the hospital has supported multiple NGOs and community projects, showing that healthcare excellence and social responsibility can and should go hand in hand. This is in line with a global shift in healthcare: more hospitals and clinics are realising that true wellness isn't only about technology or skill, but also about empathy, access and advocacy. 'We can't solve every challenge, but we can change someone's life. And that's worth doing.'
