Lung cancer

There are two types of lung cancer: small cell and non-small cell.

Small-cell lung cancer is less common than non-small cell lung cancer. It occurs mostly in heavy smokers.

Non-small cell lung cancer is an umbrella term for several types of lung cancer that behave similarly. These cancers include squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. among both men and women. Lung cancer claims more lives each year than colon, prostate, ovarian and breast cancers combined.

By performing low-dose screenings, we can reduce the amount of radiation to the patient during CT exams.

The American Cancer Society recommends annual lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan for certain people at higher risk for lung cancer who meet the following conditions:

• Are 55 to 77 years old and in fairly good health
• Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years
• Receive smoking cessation counseling if they are current smokers
• Have at least a 30-pack per year smoking history

Like many other cancers, lung cancer tends to not show symptoms until it becomes more advanced. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Unintended weight loss
• Coughing up blood, even a small amount
• Bone pain
• Headaches
• A new cough that doesn't go away

Our multidisciplinary team of physicians use advanced and minimally invasive approaches for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as navigational bronchoscopy with Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS), as well as minimally invasive Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) procedures. Patients with small-cell lung cancer are usually treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy. For non-small cell lung cancer, surgery and targeted therapy may also be recommended. Your doctor bases your treatment plan on the type and current stage of cancer.

A lung cancer nurse navigator is a healthcare professional with specialized education in oncology who is dedicated to working with a multidisciplinary team involved in the patient's cancer care. The navigator helps support the patient and the family through the many challenges of lung cancer, serving as a personal guide along the road to recovery.

Are you ready to be a non-smoker? Our Quit Smoking Program offers resources to help patients stop smoking and establish a healthier lifestyle.

The Quit Smoking Program includes:

• A one-on-one interview with a medical professional who has advanced knowledge of tobacco cessation counseling
• Patient enrollment in Quit Now, a state-funded program with 24/7 coaching available
• Evidence-based patient education handouts and videos
• Coordination with the patient’s primary provider to initiate adjunct tobacco cessation therapies

For dates and times of the Quit Smoking Program, please call (210) 575-8235.