Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, and is the second most common cause of cancer seen in both men and women in the United States.
The lungs act as sponges that work to absorb and filter out any potentially harmful substances while also supplying the body with much needed oxygen for numerous vital functions. As the lungs are exposed to more and more harmful substances, particles, and chemicals, their health becomes continually compromised, which can lead to severe conditions like lung cancer.
If you’re seeking lung cancer treatment for yourself or a loved one in New Jersey, contact New Jersey Cancer Care, PA to schedule an appointment.
The Three Most Common Types of Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is by far the most common kind diagnosed with about 85% of all lung cancer cases belonging to this category. Some examples of non-small cell lung cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a more aggressive type of lung cancer that appears as small and oval-shaped mass. Also called oat cell cancer, this type accounts for roughly 10-15% of lung cancers.
Lung carcinoid tumors are responsible for about 5% of all lung cancer cases. These tumors are typically characterized by very slow growth, and rarely spread. Lung carcinoid tumors may also be referred to as lung neuroendocrine tumors.
Other forms: There are also instances of extremely rare forms of lung cancer, as well as cancer that originated elsewhere in the body and eventually metastasized (spread) to reach the lungs.
Risk Factors of Lung Cancer
Any person can encounter abnormal cell growth within the lung tissue that has the potential to become cancerous. The following factors do not guarantee a person with these habits will develop lung cancer, though they are known to significantly increase their risk:
- Smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer.
- Secondhand Smoke: Regular inhalation increases risk.
- Exposure to Toxic Chemicals or Pollution: Including occupational exposures.
- Radon Gas: A naturally occurring radioactive gas.
- Asbestos Exposure: Linked to mesothelioma and lung cancer.
- HPV Infection: Some strains are linked to lung cancer.
- Family History: Genetics can play a role.
- Age: The average age of diagnosis is around 70 years old.
Signs and Symptoms
If you experience any or all of the symptoms listed below, please contact a specialist for a diagnosis, as they are often signs of lung cancer or another serious respiratory condition:
- Chest pain
- Chronic coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, and/or hoarseness
- Presence of blood in the person’s spit or phlegm
- Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Recurring respiratory infections
- Trouble swallowing
- Swelling in the face or neck
What’s a Lung Cancer Screening Like?
The entire process is pretty simple. Patients will be asked to complete a LDCT scan, which stands for low-dose computed tomography. This is similar to a regular CT scan, though this particular imaging test is specially designed to use less radiation in order to produce a clear image of the individual’s lungs.
During the scan, you will lie down on a table as it slides into a large machine and holds there to create detailed images of your lungs. There will be a technician nearby to talk you through the process and help keep you comfortable while the LDCT scan is completed. This person will likely ask you to inhale deeply and hold your breath for a few moments in order to get a clear visual of the lungs while they are fully inflated.
Some patients experience a bit of discomfort during the scan, particularly if they fear confined spaces. If such a fear applies to you, be sure to speak with your doctorbeforehand about how you can mitigate these symptoms. It helps many to know that the actual scan only lasts for about a minute, making it incredibly quick.
Who Should Complete a Lung Cancer Screening?
Generally, not everyone will require frequent visits to the doctor in order to perform a lung cancer screening. These advanced imaging tests are often best suited for those with unique risk factors that increase their likelihood of developing lung cancer, such as:
- Current or former smokers, especially those with a significant smoking history (e.g., 30 pack-years or more)
- Individuals aged 50 to 80 years
- Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Significant exposure to asbestos
- A personal or family history of lung cancer
- Exposure to radon gas
In addition, the following tests can also be recommended. These tests can help identify cancer early, or may be recommended if you are a high risk patient.
- Annual LDCT Scans: For high-risk individuals, annual LDCT scans are recommended to increase the chances of early detection.
- Liquid Biopsy: A newer, non-invasive test that detects cancer-related biomarkers in the blood, which can aid in early detection and monitoring of lung cancer.
- Enhanced Imaging Techniques: Advances in imaging technology provide more accurate and detailed pictures of lung tissues, improving diagnostic capabilities.
Staging and Treatment for Lung Cancer
Before a course of treatment can be recommended by the care team at New Jersey Cancer Care, PA, the patient must first undergo diagnostic testing to determine how far their lung cancer has progressed. This process is called staging, and the later the stage the patient is involved in, the tougher their treatment and recovery is likely to be.
Another key component to deciding on the best treatment option for a particular patient is to review the specific type of lung cancer that they were diagnosed with. Not all types are treated in the same way, though chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery are among the most common solutions used by the specialists at New Jersey Cancer Care, PA.
- Surgery: Removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
- Liquid Biopsy: A non-invasive test that detects cancer DNA in the blood, aiding in early diagnosis and monitoring.
- Personalized Medicine: Treatments tailored to the genetic makeup of the tumor.
What You Can Do to Prevent Lung Cancer
- Quit Smoking: The most effective way to reduce your risk of lung cancer.
- Avoid Secondhand Smoke: Remove yourself from smoke-filled environments.
- Reduce Exposure to Carcinogens: Limit exposure to toxic chemicals, radon, and asbestos.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to boost overall health.
- Routine Screenings: Regular visits with your doctor and lung cancer screenings can help detect issues early, especially for high-risk individuals.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’ve been diagnosed with lung cancer, contact New Jersey Cancer Care, PA today to schedule an appointment. Please call your preferred location directly, or request an appointment through our secure online form. We have clinics in Belleville, Montclair, and Roselle.
Sources:
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/lungcancer/
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/diagnosis_treatment.htm
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lung-cancer-screening/about/pac-20385024