Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. More than 43,000 people are diagnosed with the condition every year in the UK
Lung cancer is a prevalent and serious form of cancer, with over 43,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the UK.
In the early stages, lung cancer often doesn’t present noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, common signs may include:
- A persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Ongoing breathlessness
- Unexplained fatigue and weight loss
- Chest pain or discomfort when breathing or coughing
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a GP.
Types of lung cancer
Lung cancer that originates in the lungs is known as primary lung cancer, while cancer that spreads to the lungs from other parts of the body is referred to as secondary lung cancer. This article focuses on primary lung cancer.
There are two main types of primary lung cancer, classified based on the cells where the cancer begins:
- Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC): The most common type, accounting for 80-85% of cases. It includes squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large-cell carcinoma.
- Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC): Less common but typically more aggressive, spreading faster than NSCLC.
The type of lung cancer you have will influence the treatment options recommended by your healthcare provider.
Who is affected by lung cancer?
Lung cancer primarily affects older adults, with cases being rare in individuals under 40. In the UK, more than 40% of those diagnosed are aged 75 and older.
While non-smokers can develop lung cancer, smoking remains the leading cause, responsible for over 70% of cases. This is due to the regular inhalation of toxic substances found in tobacco smoke.
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Treatment for lung cancer
Treatment options depend on the type of lung cancer, the stage of the disease, and your overall health.
- Surgery: If lung cancer is detected early and is localized, surgery to remove the affected part of the lung may be recommended.
- Radiotherapy: If surgery isn’t suitable due to health concerns, radiotherapy may be used to destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: For cases where the cancer has spread too far for surgery or radiotherapy, chemotherapy is typically employed.
- Targeted therapies: These medicines focus on specific changes in or around the cancer cells that promote their growth. While targeted therapies can’t cure lung cancer, they can help slow its progression.
What is the outlook for lung cancer?
Lung cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until it has spread within the lungs or to other parts of the body, leading to a less favorable prognosis compared to other cancers.
Approximately 40% of people diagnosed with lung cancer survive for at least one year, while around 10% live for ten years or more. Survival rates vary greatly depending on how early the cancer is detected. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving outcomes.
