Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Overview

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer, accounting for about one in five cancer deaths worldwide. It primarily affects the lungs, which are large organs in the chest that take in oxygen when you inhale and release carbon dioxide when you exhale. Early detection can be challenging because symptoms often do not appear until the disease is advanced.                               

Types of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is generally classified into two main types based on the appearance of lung cancer cells under the microscope:                           

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):
  
  • This is the most common type, making up about 85% of cases. NSCLC has several subtypes including adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
• Small cell lung cancer (SCLC):
  
  • This type accounts for about 15% of lung cancers and tends to spread more quickly than NSCLC.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

The symptoms of lung cancer can vary and often mimic those of less serious conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough that worsens over time
• Constant chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or hoarseness
• Recurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the neck and face

Risk Factors

Factors that can increase the risk of lung cancer include:

• Smoking:
  
  • The leading cause of lung cancer. Both current and former smokers are significantly at risk, although the risk decreases over time after quitting.
• Exposure to secondhand smoke 
  
• Exposure to radon gas:
  
  • The leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.
• Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens:
  
  • Such as arsenic, chromium, and nickel.
• Family history of lung cancer
• Personal history of lung disease:
  
  • Such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Diagnosis 

Diagnosis of lung cancer typically involves a series of tests, including:

• Imaging Tests: 
  
  • Such as chest X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans to find abnormal areas in the lungs.
• Sputum cytology:
  
  • Examining sputum (mucus you cough up) under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
• Tissue Biopsy 
  
  • A sample of abnormal cells may be removed in a procedure called a biopsy, which is the definitive way to diagnose lung cancer.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and how advanced the cancer is, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Common treatments include:

• Surgery:
  
  • To remove the lung tumor and surrounding tissue.
• Radiation Therapy:
  
  • Especially for people who cannot have surgery.
• Chemotherapy: 
  
  • Often used after surgery to kill any cancer cells that might remain. It can also be used as the main treatment for cancers that have spread.
• Targeted Therapy: 
  
  • Drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy 
  
  • Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

Lung cancer remains a major challenge in oncology, largely due to its late diagnosis and complex treatment requirements. Stopping smoking and reducing exposure to lung cancer risk factors are crucial preventative measures. In the UK, numerous organisations and services provide support for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for lung cancer patients and their families.

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