讀後心得

Recently, the weather has changed significantly, causing concerns among the public about catching a cold due to coughs and breathing difficulties. However, doctors point out that some symptoms may be signs of cancer, particularly "小細胞肺癌" (small cell lung cancer), which grows rapidly, has a strong ability to metastasize, and has an extremely low survival rate. Many patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, with an average survival period of only 4.9 months. In one case, a man in his 60s sought medical attention due to breathing difficulties, and examinations revealed a large tumor in his left lung pressing against the pulmonary artery, confirming a diagnosis of small cell lung cancer. Research shows that quitting smoking is the best measure to prevent this cancer, and regular check-ups can increase the chances of early detection. For high-risk groups, it is recommended to apply for subsidies for low-dose computed tomography scans.

Recently, with the changing seasons, the temperature fluctuates, and symptoms like cough and respiratory discomfort often raise concerns about whether one has caught a cold again. However, doctors remind us that some symptoms are often misidentified as a cold, while the real issue may be a sign of cancer. Among them, "small cell lung cancer" is known for its rapid growth and aggressive metastasis, earning the title of the "king of lung cancers." Many patients, once diagnosed, are already in the advanced stages, with survival time measured in months; if the golden treatment period is missed, there may not even be time to respond.

A male patient in his 60s sought medical help due to difficulty breathing, and upon examination, a large tumor was found in his left lung pressing on the pulmonary artery, confirming a diagnosis of "small cell lung cancer." The doctor pointed out that by the time the patient sought medical attention, the symptoms were already quite obvious. Due to the enlargement of the small cell lung cancer tumor, symptoms are often confused with respiratory diseases like colds, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Many people have developed a long-term habit of "chronic cough" and "respiratory discomfort," often overlooking these warning signs until the tumor spreads, invading tissues such as the trachea, heart, or nerves, leading to patients often having tumors that are widely spread at the time of diagnosis, requiring immediate and aggressive treatment. Therefore, it is essential to raise awareness if experiencing any discomforting symptoms.

The malignancy of small cell lung cancer surpasses that of pancreatic cancer. Although its incidence rate is low, its malignancy is extremely high. According to data, the 5-year survival rate for small cell lung cancer is only 6%, and if it has entered the metastatic stage, the average survival time is just 4.9 months. This makes small cell lung cancer difficult to detect early and manage in the long term, often resulting in the missed opportunity for golden treatment by the time of discovery.

• Fast growth rate: Tumors spread very quickly, and by the time symptoms appear, it is often already in an advanced stage.
• Strong metastasis ability: By the time of diagnosis, it is often already spread to lymph nodes, pleura, or other organs.
• Short survival period: Once it enters the metastatic stage, the average survival period is only 4.9 months, with a 5-year survival rate of just 6%.
• Unstable treatment response: The first-line chemotherapy has a quick response but is prone to recurrence, with limited options for subsequent treatments.

Recently, a research team revealed the key mechanism behind the deterioration of small cell lung cancer for the first time, finding that neuroendocrine cells of small cell lung cancer produce electrical activity autonomously during their growth, stimulating tumor deterioration. These cells cooperate to supply oxygen and glucose, promoting the rapid growth and expansion of small cell lung cancer. The study also found that using fugu toxin can block these electrical signals, helping to reduce the tumor's deterioration capability.

To maintain a healthy first line of defense, prevention should start with lifestyle habits. Studies show that over 90% of small cell lung cancer patients have a history of smoking, and doctors point out that the correlation between small cell lung cancer and smoking is extremely high. Therefore, quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce the risk of small cell lung cancer. High-risk groups should consider seeking professional assistance to quit smoking and undergo regular low-dose computed tomography scans of the lungs to seize opportunities for early treatment. Regular check-ups and early detection are crucial for increasing lung cancer survival rates. With effective screening tools, it may be possible to shift late-stage patients to early-stage status.