Affecting both men and women, lung cancer is the second most common cancer
(discounting skin cancer) and a leading cause of cancer death in both
sexes according to the American Cancer Society. The good news: Many lung
cancers can be prevented since they are related to smoking, second-hand
smoke, and sometimes, radon exposure or other environmental factors.
There is no doubt that lung cancer can be a serious disease. However, those
with lung cancer found at an early stage can be treated successfully.
While signs and symptoms may not occur at an early stage, being proactive
and knowing the risk factors can help you, and your doctor, determine if a
lung cancer screening is needed.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Most lung cancers do not cause any symptoms until it spreads, but some
individuals who are in the early stages may experience symptoms. The key
is to alert your doctor to any symptoms you have early on, when treatment
may be more effective.
Symptoms may include:
Persistent cough
Hoarseness
Weight loss and loss of appetite
Coughing up blood or discolored (“rusty”) sputum
Chest pain that worsens with coughing, deep breathing or laughing
Shortness of breath
Weakness or tired feeling
New episodes of wheezing
Persistent infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia
Risk Factors and Prevention
Smoking
Exposure to second-hand smoke
Exposure to radon
Exposure to asbestos and other types of chemicals and carcinogens
Family history of lung cancer
Prevention, then, may mean avoiding the items listed above (except family
history, which cannot be controlled). For those individuals at a higher
risk for lung cancer, a test called a Low-Dose CT scan, becoming known
as the "mammogram" of lung cancer testing, available at the
Independence Health System Lung Center.
Types of Lung Cancer
Understanding the different types of lung cancer can help guide treatment
decisions and outcomes. The two main types are non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer. It tends to grow and spread
more slowly than small cell lung cancer. Subtypes include:
Adenocarcinoma, which often starts in the outer parts of the lungs and
is more common in people who have never smoked.
Squamous cell carcinoma, typically found in the central parts of the lungs
and more commonly linked to smoking.
Large cell carcinoma, which can appear in any part of the lung and tends
to grow and spread quickly.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
SCLC accounts for fewer lung cancer cases and tends to grow and spread
more rapidly. It is strongly associated with smoking and often discovered
at a more advanced stage.
Each type of lung cancer behaves differently and may require a unique treatment
approach. That’s why early detection and proper diagnosis are so
important.
Take Charge of Your Lung Health
Lung cancer can be a life-altering diagnosis, but early detection and timely
care can make all the difference. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms,
have a history of smoking, or are simply concerned about your risk, don’t
wait to take the next step. Understanding the warning signs, risk factors,
and types of lung cancer is an important part of staying informed and
proactive.
If you’re at risk or have concerns about lung cancer,
contact us today to schedule a screening at Independence Health System.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should consider lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening is generally recommended for people at higher risk
because of factors such as age and a history of smoking. A healthcare
provider can review your individual risk factors and determine whether
a low-dose CT scan may be appropriate.
What is a low-dose CT scan for lung cancer?
A low-dose CT scan uses a lower amount of radiation than a standard CT
scan to create detailed images of the lungs. It can help identify lung
cancer at an earlier stage, sometimes before symptoms develop, when treatment
may be more effective.
Does having symptoms mean I have lung cancer?
Not necessarily. Symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath,
or chest discomfort can have many causes, including infections and other
respiratory conditions. Persistent or unusual symptoms should be discussed
with a healthcare provider so the underlying cause can be evaluated.
Can nonsmokers develop lung cancer?
Yes. Although smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer, people
who have never smoked can also develop the disease. Risk factors may include
secondhand smoke, radon, certain workplace exposures, air pollution, and
a family history of lung cancer.
How is lung cancer diagnosed?
If a screening scan or other imaging test identifies an area of concern,
additional testing may be recommended. Depending on the circumstances,
evaluation can include diagnostic imaging, laboratory tests, bronchoscopy,
or a biopsy to determine whether cancer is present and identify its type.
What happens after a lung cancer diagnosis?
After lung cancer is diagnosed, healthcare providers may perform additional
tests to determine the cancer's type, stage, and other characteristics.
This information helps the care team develop an individualized treatment
plan based on the patient's health and specific diagnosis.
What treatments are available for lung cancer?
Treatment depends on factors such as the type and stage of lung cancer
and the patient's overall health. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment
may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy,
immunotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
Can lung cancer be treated if it is found early?
Lung cancer detected at an earlier stage may have more treatment options
and can have better outcomes than cancer diagnosed after it has spread.
This is one reason screening can be important for people who meet recommended
eligibility criteria.
Can quitting smoking reduce my risk of lung cancer?
Yes. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing lung cancer and
provides health benefits at any age. People who currently smoke or previously
smoked can talk with a healthcare provider about smoking cessation resources
and whether lung cancer screening is appropriate.
Should I talk to a doctor if lung cancer runs in my family?
A family history of lung cancer may be one factor considered when evaluating
your overall risk. If a close family member has had lung cancer, discussing
your family history and other risk factors with a healthcare provider
can help determine whether additional evaluation or screening may be appropriate.
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