How To Prevent Lung Cancer Recurrence

 Researchers are studying effective ways to prevent the recurrence of lung cancer in patients. After a patient has been successfully treated, there are numerous ways to help lower the risks.

1. It is recommended by doctors that patients have a full physical examination every three months for the first two years, followed by a six monthly examination thereafter. Examinations may include: chest X-rays, CT (computer assisted tomography) scans, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans, or blood tests. Depending on the type of lung cancer that a patient was diagnosed with.

2. When a patient has successfully finished a course of treatment, it is encouraged by most doctors that a 30 minute exercise regime be carried out by the cancer patient at least five times a week. These exercises should include general fitness exercises such as walking, cycling, swimming, and jogging (depending on the age and condition of the patient in question). Not only does exercising make someone feel stronger, but it also helps the patient build up a stronger immune system.

3. Eating a healthy diet also helps reduce the risks. Studies show that by eating a large variety of fruits and vegetables (variety is more important than quantity) may also contribute to reducing both the risks of developing lung cancer, and its recurrence. By eating a low-fat, high whole grain diet will help keep a sufficient amount of nutrients within the body. These nutrients help to keep the body strong. They also have a great amount of anti-recurrence benefits.

4. Smoking which is one of the main causes of lung cancer, should be given a complete miss after treatment has finished, together with most alcoholic beverages. Both contain a number of carcinogens that not only raise the chances of being diagnosed with the disease, but also significantly raise the risks of the disease returning. Apart from the lungs that are at risk from tobacco and alcohol, other organs such as the esophagus, liver, and stomach, are also at risk.

5. Depending on the type of lung cancer a patient was diagnosed with, may also depend on the after treatment options that are available. These options may include traditional medicines that reduce the risks of a recurrence, or alternative medicines that have also shown a great deal of success. Alternative medicines are also considered as a good after treatment option, due to them being less harmful to the body's organs than traditional anti-recurrence drugs.