It is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, among both men and women. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

Don Estep is publisher of the News Journal.

I have a particular interest in informing people about the symptoms of lung cancer because I have battled lung cancer twice.

The first time was 13 years ago when by chance a spot was seen after I had an examination for a hurting on my left side near my stomach.

Although that problem had nothing to do with cancer, luckily the doctors spotted a tumor. If I had not had that examination I would not be here today. I had to have the lower right lobe of my lung removed.

As luck would have it I had the same hurting about a year and one-half ago and once again the exam showed that I had another tumor, also in my right lung.

This time it was not operable because it was near my windpipe. I had to have five very powerful shots of radiation which to this point has put the cancer in remission.

However, it may or may not have caused another problem as the result of the radiation. My trachea has collapsed which has caused discomfort and difficulty in breathing.

Lung cancer is awful and the quicker you treat it the better chance you have of surviving. Here are some of the symptoms you should be aware of:

•A new cough that doesn’t go away.

•Changes in a chronic cough or “smoker’s cough” By the way I last smoked a cigarette over 50 years ago.

•Coughing up blood, even a small amount

•Shortness of breath

•Chest pain

•Wheezing

•Hoariness in your voice

•Losing weight without trying

•Bone pain

•Headache

I have had friends who smoked and friends who didn’t smoke die of lung cancer. But if you smoke, STOP smoking! And don’t ever try smoking if you are tempted.

I’m 83 years old. I have cheated death twice because I have had good doctors and because when I have had a symptom of a problem the doctors have searched to find out the answer.

So, do yourself a favor. If you have any of these symptoms have them checked out. Life is not as good as it once was before I had cancer but it is great that I still have life.