Although lung cancer is not a rare disease, it remains difficult to treat. Because lung cancer is often found at an advanced stage, survival rates are not entirely accurate. The good news is that these numbers have improved substantially over the last decade, and today, 61% of people with lung cancer survive five years or longer. Researchers at Knight Cancer Institute are currently studying new ways to treat lung cancer, and you may be eligible to participate in one of their clinical trials.
Most patients with small cell lung cancer will not undergo surgery. However, their doctors will work to coordinate their care and keep you informed. Your doctor may recommend participation in clinical trials to learn about new treatments. Other patients may opt for palliative care. This is an approach that aims to alleviate symptoms while waiting for the next stage of treatment. There are also some new medications available to treat lung cancer, including immunotherapy and chemotherapy. This treatment can be life-saving if you can afford it.
As with most cancers, the first step is to detect a diagnosis. Lung cancer is most commonly caused by smoking, but it can occur in anyone. Smoking is the number one risk factor for developing the disease. Once the disease has spread to nearby tissues, it can quickly spread throughout the body. In the worst case scenario, it could spread to other organs. This disease is fatal without treatment, but it can be treated if detected early enough.
There are two basic types of lung cancer: adenocarcinomas and adenomas. Each type has unique characteristics and treatment options. Your doctor will use the stage of your lung cancer to determine the best treatment for you. If you have any of these two types of cancer, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove it. You will also need to consider the severity of the tumor and its spread, as it has a different prognosis than other forms.
After determining the stage of lung cancer, a physician will perform a number of diagnostic tests. For example, a bronchoscopy is a test that involves using a light-tipped tube through the mouth to see a tumor in the lung. The doctor can take a tissue sample during this procedure if necessary. Another test, called a needle biopsy, involves inserting a needle through the chest skin and advancing it into a tumor. This biopsy results in a sample of cells, and the test will be returned to the doctor within a week.
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCL) is the most common type of lung cancer. It has many different types, and the good news is that most NSCLs respond to treatment when detected in its early stages. The best way to detect this type of cancer is by undergoing regular screenings. Your doctor will also perform additional tests to learn more about your case. Your doctor will recommend a treatment option that fits your individual needs. For example, if you have a family history of lung cancer, your doctor may recommend a lung scan.
