The lungs are the organs responsible for oxygenating the blood and expel carbon dioxide, a waste product produced by the body’s cells. Also participating in other important metabolic and cardiovascular functions. The bronchi, while carrying the inspired air into the lungs. From the trachea are divided on, giving rise to smaller and smaller bronchi to reach the alveoli. The alveoli are tiny sacs surrounded by small-caliber blood vessels (capillaries). Among the air in the alveoli and capillaries where gas exchange occurs.
The lung cancer is a malignant tumor that usually originates in the cells lining the bronchi (bronchial epithelium). It is produced mainly by irritation and chronic inflammation of the bronchial epithelium by external agents (carcinogens), wherein the cigarette smoke. Proceeds from this chronic irritation and genetic mutations occur that lead to rapid and uncontrolled growth of certain cells, called malignant transformation, thus creating a cancer. Finally when we continue to grow the tumor, some cells may travel to other organs of the body, giving rise to metastases.
The snuff is the main risk factor. Also influenced by other external actors such as exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos, other minerals and radioactive gases, marijuana use, environmental pollution and recurrent inflammation of tuberculosis and some types of pneumonia, among others. There is also an important genetic predisposition that makes some people more likely to develop cancer when exposed to these carcinogens or even without exposure.
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