Pulmonary tuberculosis has been suggested to potentially increase the likelihood of lung cancer occurrence due to the damage it inflicts on the lungs. However, concrete evidence establishing a direct association between pulmonary tuberculosis and lung cancer remains elusive.
Research conducted at China Medical University indicates that individuals previously diagnosed with tuberculosis may face a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer, with a reported 10.9 times greater likelihood compared to those without a history of TB.
The inflammatory and fibrotic consequences of tuberculosis on lung tissues may pave the way for cyst formation, which, if left untreated, could progress into cancerous growths. Additionally, the weakened immune response observed in tuberculosis patients may render the body more susceptible to carcinogenic exposures, facilitating mutations in lung cells that culminate in cancer development.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) arising from tuberculosis exacerbates the risk of lung cancer occurrence manifold.
Tuberculosis predominantly affects the pulmonary system, encompassing the mouth, nasal passages, esophagus, and lungs. Microbial accumulation in the lungs during TB infection releases endotoxins, contributing to lung damage. While tuberculosis treatment primarily targets bacteria, it fails to eliminate these endotoxins, perpetuating lung cell erosion and potentially fostering lung cancer development.
The initiation of tumor formation in the lungs during tuberculosis underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring for any signs of malignancy post-recovery. Furthermore, individuals with a history of tuberculosis should refrain from habits like smoking and alcohol consumption, which could activate latent cancer cells.
Although ongoing research hints at an indirect relationship between tuberculosis and lung cancer, further exploration is warranted to establish a definitive causal connection between these two formidable diseases.