Lung Cancer

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Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs. It's the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, killing 160,000 Americans annually.

There are two main types of lung cancer:

1. Small cell carcinoma - Accounts for approximately 25 percent of cases. Can spread rapidly to the lymph nodes and the brain.

2. Non-small cell carcinoma - The most common type. Includes squamous cell, large cell and adenocarcinoma cancers.

Cigarette smoking is by far the number one cause, responsible for 85 to 90 percent of lung cancers. Cigar smoking has also been cited as a risk factor. Men who smoke are 22 times more likely to develop lung cancer than nonsmokers, women smokers 12 times more likely. Exposure to radon in the home and to on-the-job, cancer-causing substances is also associated with lung cancer. Risk increases after age 45.

There are few symptoms in the early stage. Later, the disease may cause frequent coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, repeated bouts of pneumonia or bronchitis, hoarseness, coughing up of excess mucous and bloody or rust-colored phlegm.

There are three main ways to treat lung cancer:

1. Surgery to remove part or all of the lung

2. Radiation

3. Chemotherapy

Which treatment is best for you depends on the type of cancer and your overall health. A combination of the three is often used. Advances in surgical techniques are currently being investigated. These could allow surgery on more types of lung cancer, with less trauma to patients.

Researchers are also studying whether certain drugs can help prevent or treat cancer, including a group known as "retinoids," which have already shown promise in treating head and neck tumors. Scientists are also trying to isolate lung cancer genes and develop antibodies that can attack cancer cells.

• Don't smoke, and if you do, stop.
• Avoid second-hand smoke at home and at work.
• Test your home for radon.
• Find out workplace exposure hazards.