Lung Cancer

What Is Lung Cancer?

The lungs are located in the chest cavity and are part of the respiratory system, responsible for supplying oxygen to the body and removing carbon dioxide. Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can interfere with lung function and spread to other parts of the body. There are two main types of lung cancer:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Accounts for about 85% of cases. It generally grows more slowly but may be less responsive to certain treatments.
• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Accounts for about 15% of cases. It typically grows and spreads more quickly but often responds better to chemotherapy and radiation.

What Causes Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer develops when genetic changes in lung cells cause uncontrolled growth and division. While the exact cause may not always be known, risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer include:

• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Family history of lung cancer
• Personal history of certain cancers
• Aging
• Exposure to asbestos or other carcinogens
• Air pollution
• Prior radiation therapy to the chest
• Tuberculosis
• Genetic mutations

How Is Lung Cancer Detected?

Diagnosis begins with a review of your medical, surgical, social, and family history, along with laboratory testing and imaging studies. Imaging tests may include:

• CT scan: Creates cross-sectional images of the chest.
• PET scan: Uses a radioactive tracer to highlight cancer cells.
• PET-CT scan: Combines CT and PET scans for greater accuracy.
• Chest X-ray: May show abnormal growths in the lungs.

If a suspicious mass is identified, your doctor may recommend a biopsy or aspiration to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer type.

Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer

The following may be signs of lung cancer, but they can also be caused by other illnesses:

• Persistent cough or a change in an existing cough
• Coughing up blood or increased mucus
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort in other areas of the body
• Wheezing or hoarseness
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Fatigue or weakness
• Abnormal weight loss or loss of appetite
• Headaches or migraines

It is important to tell your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms so the cause can be determined and treatment planned if necessary.

Stages of Lung Cancer

Staging describes how far the cancer has spread and is essential for treatment planning. Staging differs between SCLC and NSCLC. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):

Stage I

Cancer is limited to the lung and has not spread to lymph nodes.

Stage II

Cancer may have spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues but remains within the lung region.

Stage III

Cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the chest or nearby structures.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the bones, brain, or liver.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC):

• Limited Stage: Cancer is confined to one lung and may involve nearby lymph nodes.
• Extensive Stage: Cancer has spread to the other lung, distant lymph nodes, or other organs.

How Is Lung Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. Options may include:

• Surgery to remove part or all of the lung affected by cancer
• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to target rapidly growing cells
• Immunotherapy to boost the body’s immune response against cancer
• Targeted therapy for cancers with specific genetic mutations

When deciding on a treatment plan, factors considered include:

• Your age, health, and lifestyle
• The type and stage of cancer
• Any other serious health conditions you have
• The likelihood that treatment will help control or cure your cancer
• Possible side effects of each treatment

Our Approach

We understand that a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and frightening. At New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we build our care teams around you. Our expert oncologists provide individualized treatment plans, answer your questions, and support you at every step. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to lung cancer, please call us at (855) 528-7322 or request an appointment online.