Lung Cancer

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs and can form tumors that interfere with normal breathing and organ function. It is one of the most serious cancer types and is among the leading causes of cancer‑related death in adults. Because early lung cancer may not cause symptoms, screening and early evaluation are very important.

Types of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is commonly classified into two major types:

  • Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most common form, accounting for the majority of cases. This category includes subtypes such as adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): A more aggressive type that tends to grow and spread more rapidly.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing lung cancer, including:

  • Cigarette smoking — the leading cause of lung cancer in both men and women
  • Exposure to secondhand smoke
  • Radon gas exposure
  • Asbestos and other industrial carcinogens
  • Air pollution and certain chemicals
  • Family history or genetic predisposition
  • Older age — lung cancer is more common in adults over age 45

Signs and Symptoms

Early lung cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • A persistent cough that does not go away
  • Coughing up blood or discolored sputum
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Unintended weight loss and fatigue
  • Hoarseness or changes in voice
  • Additional symptoms if the cancer has spread (metastasized)

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis is vital to determine the type and stage of lung cancer. This typically includes:

  • Physical exam to review symptoms and risk history
  • Imaging studies such as chest X‑ray and CT scan to visualize lung tissue
  • Biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells under the microscope
  • Additional tests like PET scans, MRI, bronchoscopy, or mediastinoscopy for staging and planning

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer and the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:

  • Surgery to remove cancerous tissue — often used in early‑stage NSCLC
  • Chemotherapy to target cancer cells systemically
  • Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors
  • Targeted therapy and immunotherapy designed to attack specific cancer cell mechanisms
  • Multimodal approaches — combining surgery, chemo, and radiation when indicated

Decisions about treatment are tailored to each patient based on pathology, staging, and overall health goals. A multidisciplinary care team — including thoracic surgeons, oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and pathologists — is essential for optimal care.

Divisions Involved in Your Care

Procedures We Use

Frequently Asked Questions

The two major types are non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), each with different behaviors and treatment approaches.

Smoking is the leading cause, but exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental carcinogens (like radon and asbestos), and family history also contribute.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like chest X‑rays and CT scans, followed by a biopsy to confirm cancer cells and additional testing to guide staging.

Persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue warrant medical assessment.

Yes. Early‑stage lung cancer may be treated surgically, and many patients benefit from combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy depending on stage and type.

Staging describes how far the cancer has spread and directly influences treatment decisions and prognosis.