Lung cancer

It is important to be aware of the known symptoms of lung cancer. Lung cancer symptoms in men and women are usually the same, with the most common including:

• Chest pain
• Coughing, especially coughing up blood
• Fatigue or weakness
• Hoarseness or wheezing
• Recurrent infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

It is often difficult to detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, as it is typically asymptomatic. As a result, by the time these symptoms are present, the cancer can be more advanced.

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer affecting both men and women, and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the nation.

Though lung cancer most commonly affects older adults, it can happen at any age, so early detection saves lives. As such, screening for lung cancer before you have any symptoms can be vitally important.

We use low-dose computerized tomography (CT) scans as part of our screening process. This relatively quick scan gives your provider insight into the state of your lungs by taking a series of images of your chest, helping to detect the presence of cancer.

According to the National Lung Screening Trial findings, lung cancer screening is recommended for:

• Current smokers with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years
• Former smokers with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history who have quit within the last 15 years
• People between the ages of 50 and 77

The two most common types of lung cancer are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer. While both present the same symptoms and begin in the tissues in your lungs, they have important differences.

Small cell lung cancer makes up approximately 15 percent of all lung cancer diagnoses, and occurs almost exclusively in individuals with a history of smoking. This form of lung cancer is associated with a high rate of recurrence.

Types of NSCLC

NSCLC makes up about 85 percent of lung cancer diagnoses, making it the most common type. Although NSCLC and small cell lung cancer symptoms and risks are the same, NSCLC spreads slower. It is important to note that, until it has spread to other parts of the body, many individuals do not experience symptoms.

The three main types of NSCLC are:

• Adenocarcinoma — This condition usually starts in the outer areas of the lungs, and is often diagnosed early. While it is the most common type of lung cancer among nonsmokers, it can also affect smokers.
• Large cell carcinoma — This may originate anywhere in the lungs, and is characterized by aggressive growth. It is linked to smoking, asbestos, radon and air pollution, and is less common than the other subtypes.
• Squamous cell carcinoma — This condition begins in the central airways, and is more common in men than women. There is also a strong correlation between it and smoking.

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (512) 840-6032.