Lung cancer is the leading cause of deaths around the world. Affecting both men and women, it is currently the country’s most frequent cancer. Lung cancer is the most alarming in nature. This is because there are different types of lung cancer that vary in their growth pattern, diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, lung cancer treatment is done in different ways, depending on the type of lung cancer one has and how far it has spread. The stage of cancer and the cell type are the two most crucial factors that determine a person’s survival rate. That’s why, even if it’s difficult and tricky, it’s always best to get diagnosed as early as possible in the case of lung cancer.
Types of Lung Cancer:
There are two main types of lung cancer based on appearance and size. They are Small Cell Lung Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. They are classified based on what the cancer cells look like under a microscope. Lung cancer treatment, based on the severity and cause of lung cancer, differs. As a result, understanding the difference between the two forms of lung cancer is crucial. If you have non-small cell lung cancer, your doctor may run tests to find out if there is any change in your genes. The results will help your doctor decide the treatment that works best for you.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer:
Non-small cell lung cancer is the most predominant lung cancer that accounts for 80 to 85 percent of all lung cancer cases. It grows and spreads slowly in comparison to the other type of cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer most commonly develops in the periphery of the lungs and the central parts of the lungs.
Small Cell Lung Cancer:
Small cell lung cancer is less common and accounts for about 15 to 20 percent of all lung cancer cases. Small cell lung cancer cells are smaller in size and tend to spread more swiftly than non-small cell lung cancer tumours. It is also known as oat cell carcinoma. Furthermore, this type of cancer is fatal as it spreads extensively to other parts of the body. Smokers are affected by this type of cancer, as it is generally caused because of smoking.
Staging:
Once your lung cancer is diagnosed, your doctor will run tests to determine the extent of your cancer. Tests are done to find out how far the cancer has spread. This process is known as staging. The type and stage of lung cancer helps you and your doctor decide what kind of treatment is most appropriate. For instance, not every test is suitable for every person, so you will have to talk with your doctor about procedures that are right for you. Staging tests may include CT, MRI and bone scans among others.
Types of Treatment:
Lung cancer is treated in several ways, based on its type and how far it has spread. Some treatments are used to control the cancer, while others are used to reduce its symptoms and improve your quality of life. For instance, you can treat non-small cell lung cancer with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, surgery, or a combination of these treatments. Whereas small cell lung cancer is usually treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Surgery – Doctors operate and cut out the cancer tissue.
- Chemotherapy – Use of special medicines to either shrink or kill the cancer.
- Radiation therapy – Use of high-energy rays to kill the cancer.
- Targeted therapy – Use of drugs that block the spread and growth of cancer cells.
In cancer care, doctors from different specialties often work together to create a patient’s treatment plan. Cancer care teams have a variety of other health care professionals like oncology nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, counsellors, dietitians, social workers, pharmacists and others.
Thank you for feedback.