Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Overview

Lung cancer is one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of cancer worldwide. It originates in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. At Vibhavadi Hospital, we provide comprehensive care for lung cancer patients, from early screening and diagnosis to advanced treatment and continuous support.

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a disease where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lung tissue, interfering with the lung's function. There are two main types:

1. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most common type, accounting for about 85% of lung cancer cases. Subtypes include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

2. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): More aggressive and fast-spreading, usually linked to smoking.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer symptoms may not appear until the disease is advanced. Common signs include:

• Persistent cough that worsens over time

• Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing

• Hoarseness

• Unexplained weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Fatigue or weakness

• Recurrent respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia

If you experience these symptoms, especially if you are at high risk, seek medical evaluation promptly.

Causes and Risk Factors

Primary Causes

• Smoking: The leading cause, responsible for about 85% of cases.

• Secondhand smoke exposure

• Exposure to radon gas, a naturally occurring radioactive gas

• Occupational exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos or arsenic

• Long-term exposure to air pollution

Additional Risk Factors

• Family history of lung cancer

• Previous radiation therapy to the chest

• Age over 50

• Chronic lung diseases such as COPD

Stages of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is categorized into stages based on tumor size and spread:

• Stage 0: Abnormal cells found only in the lining

• Stage I: Cancer confined to the lungs

• Stage II–III: Spread to lymph nodes or surrounding tissues

• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to other organs (metastasis)

Accurate staging is essential for effective treatment planning.

Diagnosis at Vibhavadi Hospital

Early and accurate diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes. At Vibhavadi Hospital, we use the following diagnostic techniques:

Imaging Tests

• Chest X-ray

• CT Scan

• PET Scan to detect spread

• MRI for brain metastases

Laboratory and Biopsy Tests

• Sputum cytology

• Bronchoscopy to collect tissue samples

• Needle biopsy guided by CT or ultrasound

• Molecular testing to identify gene mutations such as EGFR, ALK

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. At Vibhavadi Hospital, we provide individualized, multidisciplinary treatment plans that may include:

Surgery

• Lobectomy: Removal of one lobe of the lung

• Pneumonectomy: Removal of the entire lung

• Segmentectomy or wedge resection: Removal of a small portion of lung tissue

Radiation Therapy

• Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells

• Often used for localized tumors

Chemotherapy

• Uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body

• May be combined with surgery or radiation

Targeted Therapy

• Blocks specific mutations in cancer cells

• Common for tumors with EGFR, ALK, or ROS1 mutations

Immunotherapy

• Stimulates the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells

• Examples include nivolumab and pembrolizumab

Supportive and Palliative Care

For advanced cancer, we provide:

• Symptom management including pain and breathing issues

• Emotional and psychological support

• Palliative treatments to improve quality of life

Lung Cancer Screening

Who Should Get Screened?

• Adults aged 50–80 with a history of heavy smoking

• Current smokers or those who quit within the last 15 years

Screening Test

• Low-dose CT scan (LDCT) is the recommended test

• Helps reduce lung cancer mortality by up to 20%

Lung Cancer Care at Vibhavadi Hospital

We provide world-class care for lung cancer patients with:

Multidisciplinary Team

• Pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists

State-of-the-Art Facilities

• Advanced imaging systems and surgical technology

Personalized Treatment Plans

• Tailored to cancer type, genetic profile, and patient preference

Psychosocial Support

• Counseling and mental health services for patients and families

Appointment and Contact Information

To book an appointment:

• Website: www.vibhavadi.com

• Phone: 0-2561-1111

• Clinic: Cancer Center / Pulmonary Center

• Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Insurance and Treatment Costs

Vibhavadi Hospital collaborates with various insurance providers. Coverage may include:

• Diagnostic testing

• Surgery

• Chemotherapy and radiation

• Outpatient and inpatient services

For precise cost estimates and insurance eligibility, please contact our billing department.