Lung Cancer
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer begins when cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that interfere with the normal breathing process. It typically arises in the lining of the bronchi, bronchioles, or alveoli—parts of the respiratory system responsible for air exchange.
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in India and across Asia. While smoking is a major risk factor, lung cancer can also develop in non-smokers. Early detection and specialized treatment play a vital role in improving outcomes.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of lung cancer:
Smoking
The top risk factor, contributing to over 80% of cases.
Passive smoking
Second-hand smoke exposure at home, work, or public places.
Genetic predisposition
Family history and inherited DNA mutations.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Symptoms may vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, and they often overlap with other lung diseases.
Early evaluation is key if you notice any of the following:
Persistent or
worsening cough
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
Wheezing or whistling
while breathing
Hoarseness or
voice changes
Frequent infections like bronchitis or pneumonia
Chest, back, or
shoulder pain
Swelling in the face, arms, or lymph nodes
Fatigue or unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fever not responding to regular treatment
Types of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is broadly classified into two main categories:
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – 80–85% of cases includes:
- Adenocarcinoma: Begins in mucus-secreting glands. Common in non-smokers too.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originates in the central bronchi, often linked to smoking.
- Large Cell Carcinoma: Aggressive and fast-spreading. Includes subtypes like:
- Neuroendocrine carcinoma
- Adenosquamous carcinoma
- Sarcomatoid carcinoma
Diagnostic Tests for Lung Cancer
Thangam Hospital offers a full range of advanced diagnostics for lung cancer evaluation:
- Physical Examination & History
- Chest X-Ray (PA & lateral views)
- CT Scan Chest, abdomen, and brain
- MRI To check for metastasis, especially in the brain
Preventing Lung Cancer
While not all types of lung cancer are preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk by:
- Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products
- Avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke
- Eating a nutritious diet rich in antioxidants
- Staying physically active and doing breathing exercises
- Testing your home for radon and avoiding occupational hazards
Staging of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer staging is essential for planning treatment. Staging is based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis. Tests like PET-CT, EBUS, brain MRI, and biopsy guide the staging process.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer
Thangam Cancer Center offers Comprehensive Thoracic Oncology Care with a multidisciplinary team including oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, and palliative care specialists.
- Lobectomy or segmental removal of affected lung tissue
- Lymph node dissection improves survival chances
- Neoadjuvant: Before surgery to shrink the tumor
- Adjuvant: Post-surgery to remove residual cancer
- Palliative: Advanced stages to relieve symptoms
- Used during neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or definitive phases
- Effective in managing pain from bone metastases
- Personalized medicine targeting specific genetic mutations (e.g., EGFR, ALK)
- Minimizes damage to healthy cells
- Boosts the body’s immune system to attack cancer
- Especially promising in advanced non-small cell lung cancer
