Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is on the decline for men, but rising steadily among women. The major cause in this rise is smoking. Because nicotine steadies nerves, many women living under duress smoke cigarettes.

Smokers are nine times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers. Those who quit smoking do diminish their risk of developing lung cancer, but this does not happen overnight.

There are two major types of lung cancer SCLC  (small cell lung cancer) and NSCLC (nonsmall cell lung cancer). Basically, tumors begin forming in the lungs. The spread of the disease is based solely on how large these tumors become and how quickly they spread. Most lung cancers spread quickly and can grow quite large if undetected. That is why it is vital to get a yearly physical in order to detect problems early.

Who’s at risk for developing lung cancer?

• Men between the ages of 65-70
• Women starting at age 70
• Heavy smokers
• Chain smokers
• Exposure to second-hand smoke for non-smokers
• Asbestos workers
• Factory workers working near harmful chemicals or pollutants

Detecting lung cancer:

There is no one self-test to perform to detect lung cancer. An x-ray or a sputum test ordered by your doctor is one sure-fire way to detect lung cancer.

Type of Lung Cancer

Primary lung cancer- This lung cancer begins inside of the lungs and is divided into SCLC or NSCLC (as described above) depending on how the cancer cells develop.

Secondary lung cancer- is when the cancer is located elsewhere in the body and spreads to the lungs.

Metastatic lung cancer- is malignant cancer cells that start elsewhere in the body and spread to the lungs.

Lung Cancer Symptoms

• Reoccurring cough
• Blood in sputum
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling weak
• Losing weight
• Pain centered in the ribcage
• Reoccurring pneumonia or bronchitis
• Unexplained hoarseness
• Headaches or seizures
• Swelling of the neck and face
• Major fatigue

In order to accurately diagnose lung cancer, x-rays or scans are ordered. In a normal lung on an x-ray the lungs will appear dark and even. In a cancer patient the lungs will show light colors where the cancer has invaded the lungs.

A thoracentisis or needle draw from the lung may be performed if cancer is suspected. The fluid is then further analyzed for the presence of cancerous cells.

Bronchoscopy may be performed. This is where a thin tube is threaded through the nose or the mouth with a fiber optics camera attached. The surgeon can then get a clear picture of the lungs. A wash of saline is applied to flush out the fluids and some of the cells for analysis. The patient will be numbed prior to the procedure so the patient can be relaxed while the surgeon works.

Lung Cancer Treatment

If lung cancer is detected your doctor will explain to you your options.

Depending on the type and the stages of the cancer your treatment options are:

• surgery (removal of the tumor or tumors)
• radiation therapy
• chemotherapy
• Or a combination of several procedures.

Lung Cancer Stages

• Stage I cancer has a 5 year survival rate between 30-80%
• Stage II is 10-35% survival within 5 years
• Stage IIA- 10-15% within 5 years
• Stage IIIB-less than 5% within 5 years
• Stage IV cancer is less than 5% survival rate within 5 years

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the United States. Patients need to be aware of the way that smoking can lead to a shortened life. Aggressive pain management is needed for lung cancer survivors. If diagnosed, question your doctor about any clinical studies in your area. By enrolling in these studies, you will be receiving free medication, and in the long-run perhaps help someone down the road that will be also coping with this dreadful disease.