π©Ί Lung cancer can hide for years; know who needs a checkup π¨
Lung cancer often remains silent for many years until symptoms like cough or weight loss appear. Doctors suggest that those aged 50 to 80, who are current or former smokers with a 20 pack-year history, should get screened. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose CT scans for this high-risk group. While smoking history is key, pollution and family history also increase risk factors. Non-smokers should see a doctor if they have persistent symptoms instead of automatic screening.