Pella Dentists Discuss Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Pack of cigarettesYour Pella dentists care about each of their patients and work for their long-term overall health as well as their dental health. In honor of Lung Cancer Awareness Month during the month of November, Dr. Allen and Dr. Neumann share some facts about lung cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States for both men and women. The most common cause of lung cancer is smoking but individuals without exposure to smoke can also develop lung cancer. In today’s blog, Dr. Allen and Dr. Neumann answer frequently asked questions about lung cancer.

Q: What are some signs of lung cancer?

A: Lung cancer does not cause symptoms early in the disease. The following signs of lung cancer usually develop when the cancer is in a later stage: changes in a chronic cough or “smoker’s cough,” a new cough that persists, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, wheezing, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, and bone pain. Dr. Allen and Dr. Neumann recommend that patients call their doctor if they experience any symptoms that are out of the ordinary.

Q: Do experts know what causes lung cancer?

A: Smoking leads to most incidences of lung cancer. It can cause cancer in smokers but also in those exposed to secondhand smoke. You are more likely to develop lung cancer based on how long you have smoked and the number of cigarettes that you have smoked. Quitting smoking significantly decreases an individual’s risk for developing lung cancer even if she has smoked for decades. Lung cancer also strikes individuals without a history of smoking, and the cause of these cases is unclear.

About your Pella Dentists

Dr. Jeffrey F. Allen DDS and Dr. Denise Neumann have provided comfortable dental care to patients of all ages since 1996. Their services include gum disease treatment, teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and Invisalign. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a check up or cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.