Lungs are responsible for your body’s optimal respiratory health. Lung cancers occur when cells in the lining of the bronchi, bronchioles, or alveoli grow uncontrollably. This is the second-most common cancer in men and women in the U.S. Accounting for 1 in 5 cancer-led deaths in the U.S, lung cancer statistics are alarming.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are the two major types of lung cancer with NSCLCs accounting for approximately 80 to 85% of all the cases. The American Cancer Society reports 2,38,340 new cases alone in 2023 with 1,27,070 deaths. Watching out for the symptoms, evaluating risk factors and opting for periodic health screenings can help you prevent and manage lung cancer optimally.
Lung cancers can be broadly classified as Non-small Cell Lung Cancers (NSCLCs) and Small Cell Lung Cancers (SCLCs). NSCLCs can be further categorized into adenocarcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, large cell carcinomas. SCLCs can be either Small Cell Carcinomas or Oat Cell Cancers and Combined Small Cell Carcinomas.
A type of non-small cell lung cancer that originates in the mucus-producing cells in the lungs.
A type of non-small cell lung cancer that typically begins in the thin, flat cells lining the airways.
A type of non-small cell lung cancer that can appear in any part of the lung and tends to grow and spread quickly.
Inherited and acquired genetic changes, and tobacco consumptions are deemed the potent causes of lung cancers.
If your healthcare provider suspects you to exhibit certain lung cancer signs, you will be recommended to go for a physical examination. Imaging tests, such as CT scans, PET scans, MRI scans, and bone scans are also recommended to identify lung cancer signs. However, for arriving at a conclusive diagnosis, you might have to undergo tests, such as sputum cytology, thoracentesis, needle biopsy, bronchoscopy, etc. Molecular tests can also be leveraged to determine genetic changes. CBC tests and blood chemistry tests can also help your healthcare provider assess your signs and determine whether you are fit for surgical interventions for eliminating lung cancer.
Lung cancer can be categorized into SCLC and NSCLC and both these variants have different stages. Thus, the treatment may also vary based on the type and stage of lung cancer.
Treatment for SCLC by Stage
Stage I – At this stage, the cancer is usually restricted to the lungs and has not spread to the nearby lymph nodes. Surgical interventions are best suited for this stage and are often followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy to address any relapse concerns.
Limited Stage – At this stage, the tumor is relatively bigger and is often difficult to remove with surgery due to its difficult placement in the lungs. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and concurrent chemoradiation are often leveraged to destroy cancer cells and restrict further spread.
Treatment for NSCLC by Stage
Stage 0 – At this stage, cancer is still confined to the airways’ lining. Surgical interventions, such as segmentectomy, and sleeve resection, and therapeutic measures, such as photodynamic therapy, laser therapy, brachytherapy, etc. can be leveraged to treat stage 0 NSCLC.
Stage I – Surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation therapy are some of the common treatment modalities for treating stage I NSCLC.
Stage II – Sleeve resection is the most recommended surgical procedure to remove the cancer cells. At times, pneumonectomy or the complete removal of the lungs might also be necessary depending on the cancer progression.
Stage III – Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, either in a standalone or a combination manner, can be leveraged to treat advanced-stage NSCLC.
Stage IV – For stage IVA and IVB NSCLC, targeted therapy is recommended.
The treatment modalities for SCLCs vary slightly than NSCLCs.
The recommended treatment modalities for SCLCs include:
Surgery – Some of the key surgical interventions leveraged for treating SCLCs include:
Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy for SCLCs is often administered in an intravenous manner, through central venous catheters (CVCs) and central venous access devices (CVADs). This is ideal for SCLC as the cancer has spread and can’t be treated or managed with surgery and radiation.
Radiation Therapy – This treatment modality leverages high-energy x-rays to target cancer cells. Key external beam radiation therapy types, such as 3D-CRT, IMRT, VMAT, SBRT, and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are leveraged to treat SCLCs based on the stage and progression.
Lung cancer prevention measures include:
Survival rates for lung cancer have shown improvement, especially for those diagnosed at an early stage. About 65 out of 100 people with stage 1 lung cancer survive for five years or more post-diagnosis. This statistic reflects progress in early detection and treatment, bringing hope and better outcomes to those fighting the disease.
Beyond merely addressing symptoms, our practitioners meticulously unearth the roots of lung cancer, crafting personalized treatment plans that stand as a testament to our distinct approach.
The healing journey unfolds as a deliberate sequence—herbal medicines, detoxification therapies, tailored diet plans, and transformative lifestyle changes. Each step is a conscious endeavor to restore equilibrium and vitality to the body, creating an environment conducive to recovery.
Recognizing the emotional and psychological tribulations that accompany a lung cancer diagnosis, we nurture a compassionate sanctuary. Within this space, individuals freely express their hopes, fears, and worries to our empathetic counselors.
We empower individuals to embrace a healthy and peaceful life, drawing strength from within to confront adversity. The sacred bond between doctor and patient lies at our core, fostering open communication and unwavering trust.
Choosing Punarjan Clinic is an embrace of optimal healing—honoring nature’s power, receiving tailored care, and joining a compassionate community. With reverence for nature’s inherent strength, personalized care, and the embrace of a compassionate community, we extend a heartfelt invitation to embark on a transformative journey towards health, happiness, and a future free from the shadows of lung cancer.
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Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, and coughing up blood. Consult a healthcare professional if experiencing these symptoms.
Diagnosis involves imaging studies (CT scans, PET scans), bronchoscopy, biopsy, and sometimes genetic testing. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
Risk factors include smoking (primary cause), exposure to secondhand smoke, occupational exposure to certain chemicals, family history, and certain lung diseases. Understanding these factors aids in preventive measures.
While prevention is challenging, avoiding tobacco and secondhand smoke, minimizing exposure to environmental toxins, and regular screenings for high-risk individuals can lower the risk.
Treatment may involve surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Treatment plans are personalized based on cancer type and stage.
While most cases are not directly hereditary, a family history of lung cancer may indicate shared environmental factors or genetic predisposition. Genetic counseling may be recommended.
Prognosis depends on factors such as cancer stage, type, and treatment response. Early detection and comprehensive treatment improve the chances of successful outcomes.
Yes, ongoing clinical trials explore new treatments. Participation may offer access to innovative therapies. Consultation with healthcare providers can determine eligibility and suitability for clinical trial involvement.
