Lung cancer, also known as pulmonary carcinoma, accounts for the highest incidence of all cancer-related deaths in both men and women. In fact, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, taking the lives of more people than breast, colon, pancreatic, and prostate cancers combined. Although smoking tobacco is the most common risk factor for lung cancer, it is not the only one. Other risk factors include exposure to hazardous materials such as asbestos and radon, secondary smoke from others who smoke nearby, and a family history of the disease. When it comes to diagnosis, symptoms of lung cancer are not always immediately apparent. Early warning signs may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, and a feeling of shortness of breath. Additional symptoms to be aware of include wheezing, hoarseness, weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and stiffness of the neck and shoulders. Experts believe lung cancer is more likely to be curable if it is detected in i