Lung Cancer: FAQs
- What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer in both men and women. Prostate cancer is more common in men and breast cancer is more common in women. Usually, lung cancer will develop in the bronchi, bronchioles, or alveoli. Bronchi are tubes that enter the lungs, and they eventually reduce in size to become bronchioles. Alveoli are tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchioles. - What are the different kinds of lung cancer?
There are two main types of lung cancer. One is called Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and the other is called Small Cell Lung Cancer. Visit the American Cancer Society to learn more about the different types of lung cancer. - What causes lung cancer?
The most well-known risk factor and cause associated with lung cancer is smoking. According to the CDC, “Cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer. In the United States, cigarette smoking is linked to about 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths. Using other tobacco products such as cigars or pipes also increases the risk for lung cancer. Tobacco smoke is a toxic mix of more than 7,000 chemicals. Many are poisons. At least 70 are known to cause cancer in people or animals.” - Can I prevent lung cancer?
Sensibly, the best way to avoid lung cancer is to avoid the number one cause, which is smoking. Also, be very firm about your work environment if you work in an area where you fear there may be radon, asbestos, or other air pollutants. Be sure to do the favor of not smoking around people because second-hand smoke can be just as dangerous. - What is the treatment for lung cancer?
Lung cancer treatment can be quite complex depending upon where your cancer is located, what type of lung cancer you have, and other issues. In the case of non-small cell lung cancer, our palliative department will likely be brought in to help ensure you will be made as comfortable as possible. Many different issues can arise from this type of lung cancer including fluid build-up around the lungs or around the heart.In the case of small cell lung cancer, your treatment will depend on whether the stage is early or late. In either case, the most likely path will include chemotherapy. - How common is lung cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society- About 228,820 new cases of lung cancer (116,300 in men and 112,520 in women) are expected in 2020
- About 135,720 deaths from lung cancer (72,500 in men and 63,220 in women) are expected in 2020