Lung cancer

Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control in the lung, potentially invading nearby tissues and forming tumors. Lung cancer has the ability to start anywhere in the lungs and respiratory system, and can spread to lymph nodes in other parts of the body. Smoking may cause most lung cancers, but even with precautions, cancer can still affect anyone.

While there are many different types of lung cancer, there are two major sub-groups, including small cell lung cancers (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancers (NCLSC). Each sub-group requires different treatment strategies. As many symptoms of these cancers do not appear to be life-threatening, it is critical to discuss your personal risk factors with your doctor.

Risk factors for lung cancer can include:

• Chemical exposure — If you work in a profession such as construction, where it is more common to be around older structures, you possess a risk of being exposed to a variety of chemicals and carcinogens, including arsenic, asbestos and radon.
• Cigarette smoking — Smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer. The American Cancer Society reports that about 80 percent of lung cancer deaths are the result of smoking.
• Family or personal history — If you or a family member has had lung cancer in the past, there is a chance it can reappear, or make you more susceptible.
• Previous radiation therapy — If you have previously received radiation to your lungs, you are at risk for developing cancerous cells again.
• Secondhand smoke — Even for nonsmokers, exposure to secondhand smoke increases your risk of developing lung cancer.

Lung cancer typically does not show symptoms until the later stages. Additionally, the symptoms are general, and not necessarily cancer-specific. These can include:

• Bloody mucus
• Chest pain
• Coughing
• Prolonged hoarseness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

In order to properly screen for lung cancer, our diagnostic specialists will typically use computerized tomography (CT) scans, which create a cross-sectional image of your body's internal structures through a combination of X-Rays. With the introduction of low-dose CT (LDCT) lung screening, we are able to give you a better chance at early detection, particularly if you are at a higher risk for lung cancer.

Our LDCT program features fast, low-dose CT scans of the lungs. A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) showed that screening people at high risk for lung cancer with LDCT scans reduced lung cancer deaths by 20 percent. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends yearly lung cancer screenings if you are between 55 and 80 years old, and have a current history of heavy smoking, or have quit within the last 15 years.

If a positive lung cancer diagnosis is confirmed, your first step in the treatment process will be meeting with your oncology team. They will conduct a physical, fully assess your symptoms and review both your medical and family history. If the results of these exams determine that further testing is needed, you may receive one or more of the following tests:

• Bone scan
• CT scan
• Endobronchial ultrasound
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Mediastinoscopy
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

Our multidisciplinary team of lung cancer specialists are committed to treating you with the utmost care and understanding. Fellowship-trained thoracic surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, diagnostic radiologists, genetic counselors and palliative care professionals will come together to design a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your unique condition.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells, and may be used by itself or in combination with radiation therapy and surgery. Additionally, chemotherapy can be beneficial in killing cells that may still be in the body after surgery is employed.

Radiation therapy

Our radiation therapists specialize their treatments by tumor type. Using radiation treatments, such as X-rays and focused ultrasound, we work to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. When receiving radiation therapy, your lung cancer specialist with coordinate care with your entire team, including your surgeon, medical oncologist, navigator and primary care physician, to ensure precise treatment.

Lung cancer surgery

Lung surgery may be recommended to remove tumors, the affected lobe of the lung or, in some cases, the entire affected lung. Our skilled thoracic surgeons use advanced techniques, including minimally invasive video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). This approach uses specialized instruments and a camera to accomplish a resection through smaller incisions, which may provide you with less scarring, a faster recovery and a shorter hospital stay.

Types of resection include:

• Lobectomy
• Pneumonectomy
• Sleeve resection
• Wedge resection

We understand a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, so we provide access to a nurse navigator dedicated to guiding you through your lung cancer journey. Our thoracic nurse navigators have received specialized training, and will initiate and facilitate timely communication with each member of your care team. They also provide education, emotional support and access to community resources and support services.

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (844) 482-4812.