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Lung Cancer in Kuwait: Symptoms, Causes & Medical Imaging Diagnosis

Lung cancer remains one of the most deadly and common cancers globally. In Kuwait, it ranks among the top three cancers in men, particularly affecting smokers and individuals exposed to long-term air pollution.

According to Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Secretary-General of the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Kuwaiti men, with around 70 new cases reported annually, averaging one case per week.

Local Statistic:

Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in Kuwaiti men, following colorectal and prostate cancer (Kuwait Cancer Awareness Campaign “CAN”).

You can learn more about other common cancers in Kuwait such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, and skin cancer, and how early diagnosis improves outcomes.

Importance of Early Detection in Kuwait

Early detection plays a critical role in improving survival rates. National initiatives like the “CAN” awareness campaign emphasize:

  • Regular CT screenings

  • The opening of early detection clinics, such as the one at Abdulrahman Al-Abdulmughni Center in Al-Faiha

These efforts align with Kuwait Vision 2035 to enhance healthcare and promote disease prevention.
At Images Diagnostic Center, we support this vision by offering advanced imaging services that aid in early detection and treatment planning.

Advanced Imaging for Lung Cancer Detection

At Images Diagnostic Center in Kuwait, we offer cutting-edge diagnostic tools like:

These imaging techniques help accurately evaluate lung tumors, determine their stage, and guide treatment decisions.
You can also read more about how imaging supports early diagnosis in our blog on types of cancer and how medical imaging enables early detection.

Early Symptoms of Lung Cancer

 Lung cancer often shows no symptoms in early stages.
The screening for lung cancer is best done using high resolution CT (HRCT), not regular CT.
However, warning signs may include:

Symptoms

  • Persistent cough that doesn’t improve

  • Coughing up blood

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

  • Ongoing chest pain

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Frequent respiratory infections (e.g., bronchitis or pneumonia)

If you experience any of these symptoms, you can discuss imaging options such as CT scan or MRI scan with your doctor.

Who Should Get Screened in Kuwait

Annual CT scans are recommended for:

  • Smokers over age 40

  • Individuals with a family history of lung cancer

  • Those exposed to pollutants or industrial fumes

For an overview of all diagnostic options available, visit our full list of imaging services.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

Main Risk Factors

  1. Smoking (accounts for over 90% of cases in Kuwait)

  2. Exposure to carcinogens like asbestos or radon gas

  3. Chronic exposure to air pollution

  4. Family history of lung cancer

  5. Workplace exposure to chemical fumes

  6. Poor ventilation in enclosed environments

To learn how imaging supports early diagnosis for other cancers, see our insights on cervical cancer detection in Kuwait.

The Importance of Early Screening

Because symptoms often appear late, low-dose HRCT screening is vital for:

  • Early diagnosis

  • Effective treatment planning

 The KAN Campaign regularly highlights that early detection reduces mortality.

Medical imaging plays an essential role in this process, especially through CT scanning and MRI imaging, both available at our center in Kuwait.

Imaging Diagnostics at Images Center

We provide precise diagnostic services using state-of-the-art imaging equipment:

You can also learn more about non-invasive tests like ultrasound scans used for evaluating other body organs.

Schedule Your Lung Screening Today

CT scans can detect lung cancer before symptoms appear — giving you the best chance for early treatment and improved outcomes.
Schedule your screening today at Images Diagnostic Center, Kuwait’s trusted radiology provider for advanced medical imaging.

📅 Book your appointment Center over the Phone, WhatsApp Or the registration form, Kuwait’s trusted radiology provider.


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Medically reviewed by DR. Yahya Slaiman

Dr. Yahya Slaiman is a radiology specialist with over 33 years of experience and advanced qualifications from France and Syria. He is skilled in MRI (1.5T/3T), CT scans, Doppler ultrasound, and mammography, with particular expertise in brain, musculoskeletal, and vascular imaging.

References

  1. World Health Organization – Lung Cancer Facts
  2. American Cancer Society
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  4. Kuwait Medical Journal – Lung Cancer Statistics in Kuwait
  5. Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) – Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh
  6. KAN Cancer Awareness Campaign – Early Screening Initiative in Al-Faiha
FAQs
What are the first signs of lung cancer?

A persistent cough, especially with blood or worsening breathing, is often an early warning sign.

Yes, although the risk is lower. Environmental exposure and family history are key risk factors.

Avoid smoking, minimize exposure to air pollutants and carcinogens, and get regular checkups.

Typically not. That’s why annual CT screenings are highly recommended for high-risk individuals.

Lung cancer symptoms are chronic and progressive, such as ongoing cough and unexplained weight loss.