Does smoking for 3 years increase my risk of lung cancer?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been smoking marijuana and cigarettes for nearly three years, or maybe less. I have been feeling pressure or a bubble-like feeling in my left lung. I have really bad anxiety when it comes to thinking that I have cancer. It paranoid me.

I also feel that my left lung is larger than the other when I breathe in and look down. But, I have not been having the main symptoms of cancer like coughing blood, peeing blood, loss of appetite, etc. I have been dizzy, but that is when I get up from sitting, and I think that is normal.

I went to the hospital a year ago, as I had so much anxiety about the possibility of developing lung cancer and death. Then I did X-rays and scans, but they found nothing and sent me home. They said it was chest wall pain.

Still, I keep worrying, especially when I read that young smokers get lung cancer in some cases. Because of this, I want to know a few things:

I just want to know, is it possible that I could have lung cancer?
Can someone as young as me get lung cancer?
If it is not lung cancer, then why am I experiencing this discomfort in my left lung?

Kindly guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Lung cancer at a young age is uncommon, especially considering that a duration of three years is not typically sufficient to lead to cancer, as prolonged exposure over decades is usually linked to such risks. Moreover, given that you have already undergone investigations that yielded no findings, there is little cause for concern at this point.

It is possible that your symptoms are stem from psychological factors. Your primary focus should likely be on overcoming your addictions. Nicotine gum can aid in smoking cessation, while local de-addiction centers can provide assistance with marijuana use.

Engaging in regular exercises, chest physiotherapy, and practicing the art of ignoring these concerns may also prove beneficial. It's worth noting that there are no indications of symptoms like shortness of breath. Addressing your psychological well-being and addictions would likely contribute positively to your overall health.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Does smoking for 3 years increase my risk of lung cancer?

Young Smoker Lung Risk Companion