Nearly 53,000 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2023 in France. This cancer ranks second among men, and third among women, according to data from theInstitut national du cancer. And if tobacco remains the primary risk factor, responsible for eight out of ten cancers, other environmental or occupational factors recognized as carcinogenic to the lungs can affect its development.
On the other hand, common symptoms are known to the public, such as respiratory problems and a change in general health, but some less common signs may surprise specialists. This is the case for a former British general practitioner, Sally Hall. When she started experiencing back pain, the thought that she might have lung cancer didn’t even cross her mind.
“My back started to hurt.”
« I was emptying the garage », tells the retiree local daily from the town of Oldham. “ I remember pulling out crates of old ceramic tiles, so it was no surprise that my back started to hurt! The pain persisted though, so after a few months I saw my GP, as well as a physiotherapist. »
“Having never smoked, I didn’t think I would suffer from lung cancer”
« What happened next seemed like a bolt from the blue. » Tests showed that Sally had a lung tumor, as well as two spinal metastases that were responsible for the collapse of her spine. “ Having never smoked, I didn’t think I would suffer from lung cancer”she said.
The former doctor had to undergo spinal decompression and stabilization surgery, followed by radiotherapy. “ After my spinal surgery, I started targeted therapy and, ten years later, I am still on the same treatment. My tests showed that the tumor had shrunk significantly and the option of a lobectomy was suggested. This was not standard practice for metastatic disease, but my doctors thought it was the right treatment for me. »
Today, Sally Hall has learned to manage her illness and the side effects of treatments. His condition remains stable. And she makes a point of talking about her experience. “ We need to let everyone know that if you have lungs, you can have lung cancer and that even with a late diagnosis like mine, there is still hope. »
« Living with incurable lung cancer changes your world and forces you to adjust your expectations », concludes the retiree.
Source: www.topsante.com
