AIIMS Rishikesh: These Could Be Symptoms of Lung Cancer, But There’s No Need to Worry
Rishikesh, March 5, 2025
If you have been experiencing a persistent cough along with fatigue due to smoking, you should stay alert. These could be symptoms of lung cancer, but there is no need to panic.
For patients exhibiting such symptoms, AIIMS Rishikesh is running a Special Lung Clinic, which operates every Friday in the OPD of the Pulmonary Department.
In lung cancer, there is uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells in the lungs. Often, lung cancer remains undetected in its early stages and continues to grow unnoticed.
According to medical experts, lung cancer accounts for the highest mortality rate among all cancers.
Smoking is the Primary Cause of Lung Cancer
Professor Dr. Mayank Mishra, from the Pulmonary Department at AIIMS, stated that smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.
Apart from smoking, the consumption of tobacco products such as khaini, gutkha, cigars, and a family history of cancer can also increase the risk of lung cancer.
Important Facts
- A large number of people in Uttarakhand smoke, leading to a rapid increase in lung cancer cases in the state.
- AIIMS Rishikesh receives approximately 20-25 new cases of lung cancer every month.
- The Special Lung Clinic at AIIMS Rishikesh is dedicated exclusively to lung cancer patients.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
- Persistent cough with mucus
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling in the face or neck
- Changes in voice
- Loss of appetite
- Persistent fatigue
Difference Between TB and Lung Cancer
The symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) and lung cancer are quite similar. This often leads to confusion, making it difficult to differentiate between the two diseases.
Dr. Mayank Mishra explained that due to these similarities, many people mistake TB for lung cancer and vice versa.
Both diseases share common symptoms like persistent cough, blood in cough, and changes in voice. However, accurate diagnosis is only possible through specialized medical tests.
Special Lung Clinic Operates on Fridays
Dr. Mayank Mishra informed that the Lung Clinic at AIIMS Rishikesh operates every Friday.
- Only patients referred from the General OPD of the Pulmonary Department can visit this clinic.
- Apart from Pulmonary specialists, experts from Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, and Radiation Oncology are also available for consultations.
- Bronchoscopy facilities are available to determine the stage, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer.
Expert Opinion from AIIMS Rishikesh
“Lung cancer is a serious disease, but advancements in medical science have made it treatable. If diagnosed early based on symptoms, it can be managed effectively. AIIMS Rishikesh has a dedicated Special Lung Clinic, equipped with modern medical facilities and a team of expert doctors for the comprehensive treatment of lung cancer.”
— Prof. Meenu Singh, Executive Director, AIIMS Rishikesh
