Brief introduction of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is a type of cancer that affects the lungs. It is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 80-85 percent of all cases. It usually affects older adults, although it can occur at any age. Symptoms of NSCLC include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood.

Treatment for NSCLC may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The prognosis for NSCLC depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors, such as the patient's age and overall health. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival rates.

Small cell vs non-small cell lung cancer

Small cell and non-small cell lung cancer are two different types of lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive type of cancer that spreads quickly and is usually caused by smoking. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a slower-growing type of lung cancer that is more common than SCLC and is caused by a variety of factors, including smoking, exposure to asbestos and air pollution.

SCLC tends to spread to other parts of the body more quickly than NSCLC, and it is also more difficult to treat. NSCLC, on the other hand, can be treated more effectively with surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation. Both types of cancer can be serious and life-threatening, so early detection and treatment are essential for a successful outcome.

Types of non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lungs and is the most common type of lung cancer. There are different types of non-small cell lung cancer, which are classified by the type of cells that are affected. These types include squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and bronchoalveolar carcinoma.

1. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of non-small cell lung cancer and affects the cells that line the airways.

2. Adenocarcinoma affects the cells that make up the mucus-producing glands and is the most common type in non-smokers.

3. Large cell carcinoma is the least common type of non-small cell lung cancer and affects large cells in the lungs.

4. Bronchoalveolar carcinoma affects the cells that line the walls of the alveoli, which are the tiny air sacs in the lungs.

These types of non-small cell lung cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer

Its symptoms vary depending on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and weight loss. As the cancer progresses, other symptoms may include fatigue, hoarseness, and blood in the sputum. Other signs of non-small cell lung cancer can include swelling of the face and neck, difficulty swallowing, and new onset of wheezing.

Advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer can cause pain in the affected area, and spread to other organs of the body, leading to additional symptoms. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms as they can be indicative of non-small lung cancer.

Causes of non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer is caused by a combination of different genetic and environmental factors. Smoking is the primary cause of non-small cell lung cancer, and the risk increases with the amount and duration of smoking. Other environmental risk factors include exposure to radon gas, asbestos, air pollution, and other industrial pollutants. A family history of lung cancer or a personal history of cancer can also increase the risk of developing the disease. Genetic factors, such as inherited mutations in certain genes, may also play a role in the development of non-small cell lung cancer.

How is non-small cell lung cancer diagnosed?

Non-small cell lung cancer is typically diagnosed through multiple tests including imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans, X-rays, and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These tests create images of the inside of the body and allow the doctor to look for tumors. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed from the lungs and examined under a microscope. The doctor may also order other tests, such as a complete blood count, to check for signs of cancer.

Treatment for non-small cell lung cancer

Treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. The main treatments for NSCLC are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Surgery is typically used to remove tumors and may involve removing a lobe of the lung or even the entire lung. Chemotherapy involves using drugs to stop the cancer cells from growing and spreading. Radiation therapy may be used to shrink tumors or kill cancer cells.

Targeted therapy uses drugs to attack specific features of the cancer cells, while immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system to fight the cancer. In addition, supportive care measures such as nutrition, pain management, and emotional support are used to help patients cope with their diagnosis and side effects of treatment.

Medication for non-small cell lung cancer

Tecentriq 1200mg Injection consists of an active ingredient Atezolizumab. It is an anti-cancer drug that is a part of monoclonal antibody immunotherapy, indicated to treat cancer in the bladder, lungs, liver cells and breast. This medicine is active against the advanced stages of cancer where the cancer has spread to other organs.

A note from MrMed.in

Cancer diagnosis is kind of difficult things anyone can face. It’s very normal to feel very worried, frustrated and scared. No matter what cancer you have or on what stage you are, treatment will play a very major role in improving your life. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about your cancer and life. Also, you can join various local or online support groups which will help you feel more empowered and less isolated.