ABSTRACT
Lung cancer is a major health concern worldwide. A rise in smoking incidence amongst both genders, increased exposure to air pollutants and unhealthy lifestyle choices steadily contribute to this global situation. Our aim was to assess the main characteristics of this type of cancer through a retrospective analysis at a major referral center. We selected valid and complete electronic medical records of patients admitted between 2017 and 2020 at the Emergency County Hospital of Craiova, one of the largest hospitals in Romania and a major referral center for the region of Oltenia. We obtained ethical approval from both the hospital and the University and analyzed anonymized records by ICD-10 diagnostic code, extracting gender and age data, as well as associated conditions, length of stay, as well as the medical departments where the patient was hospitalized. Our results showed an increased incidence amongst men, with the majority of cases between 50 and 70 years of age. Median hospitalization period was of 6 days, with higher values for oncology and the lowest in thoracic surgery. Distant metastases, pleurisy and hemoptysis were the most prevalent comorbidities encountered. In conclusion, our study presents important data on the main characteristics of lung cancer patients in Romania.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Lung cancer, one of the most prominent malignancies of today worldwide, affects mainly men; however, recently women have also been increasingly afflicted by the disease. Our aim was to retrospectively analyze a series of potential risk factors for the disease and their potential to affect both genders. METHODS: Our retrospective study relied on anonymized data collected between 2017 and 2020 at a single hospital specialized on lung diseases. After receiving ethical clearance, data pertaining to risk factors as well as statistical aspects of the lot were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: We found 493 patients (398 men) aged between 31 and 90 years (median 67) who were found with lung tumors and selected a matched cohort of patients with other diseases. We found positive associations between the presence of smoking, COPD, or pollution and the occurrence of lung cancer. Almost all lung cancer patients presented different significant associated diseases. Family history also favored the appearance of lung cancer. CONCLUSION: Several risk factors remain high in lung tumor patients, and rapid measures to diminish the impact of such factors are needed in order to decrease the overall incidence of this pathology.
