Every year over 235,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer. In fact, lung cancer is the second-most diagnosed cancer for both men and women. Keep reading to learn more about the most effective lung cancer treatments recommended by doctors and patients.

Recent advancements in lung cancer research have significantly improved, providing hope for millions of people who have been diagnosed with the deadly disease. Here is the latest information about lung cancer and its available treatments. 

What Is Lung Cancer?

Cancer is a proliferation of abnormal cells growing out of control in the body. Lung cancer refers to cancer that occurs specifically in the lung tissue. Lung cancers are typically grouped into two different types: 

• small cell cancer 
• non-small cell cancer (including adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma). 

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common cancer type of the two. As these two cancer types develop differently, it makes sense that they are also treated differently. However, although lung cancer is a treatable disease, with survival rates improving year on year, it still affects 1 in 5 people in the US. 

What Is the Cause Of Lung Cancer?

A history of smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. In fact, smoking cigarettes leads to around 80% of lung cancer-related deaths. Of course, it's important to note that many people who develop lung cancer have no history of smoking. Similarly, not everyone who smokes develops lung cancer. 

Other factors that play a role in developing lung cancer include;

• Genetics
• Exposure to secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Radon exposure
• Asbestos exposure
• Exhaust fumes 
• Exposure to many other carcinogens

What Are Early Symptoms Of Lung Cancer?

Unfortunately, in the majority of cases, there are no early warning signs of lung cancer. If symptoms do present, they tend to be once the cancer has caused damage to the lung tissue. This is why it is imperative to have yearly wellness checks with a healthcare professional and pay attention to any changes in your breathing and general health. Some symptoms of lung cancer to watch out for include:

• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• General malaise 
• Shortness of breath and wheezing
• A cough that doesn't go away
• Coughing up blood
• Chest pain (especially pain that worsens when breathing deeply or coughing)
• Frequent respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia

As with other cancers, cancer that begins in the lungs can progress to other areas of the body. As the disease evolves and spreads, symptoms can also progress. Symptoms of advanced lung cancer, or cancer that has spread to other body parts, include:

• Pain in the bones
• Palpable lumps 
• Jaundice
• Loss of balance
• Seizures

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it's crucial to seek advice from your healthcare professional as soon as possible. 

How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?

Several different diagnostics tests can help determine the presence of lung cancer; however, most doctors will complete a range of diagnostic tests before confirming a lung cancer diagnosis. 

A simple blood test, such as a complete blood count, can let doctors know if your blood has an abnormal white blood cell count. This test is typically conducted at your annual wellness check and can be a general indicator of overall health. However, a blood test is not specific enough to diagnose lung cancer alone. Other things a doctor does to make a lung cancer diagnosis include: 

• Conducting a physical exam 
• Review medical history
• Bronchoscopy
• X-ray
• MRI Scan
• CT Scan
• PET Scan
• Bone Scan
  

If you have a history of smoking, have been exposed to any known carcinogens, or have a family history of cancer, let your doctor know as soon as possible. 

How is lung cancer treated?

Effective lung cancer treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Those diagnosed with the disease must have a highly personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific type and progression of cancer. While treatment can vary greatly depending on the patient, there are a few different lung cancer treatment methods patients may opt for: 

• Surgery - A doctor cuts the cancerous tissue out
• Chemotherapy - Specific medicines are used to shrink or kill the cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs may be taken orally or intravenously, or a combination of both.
• Radiation Therapy - High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells
• Targeted therapy - Certain drugs, such as EGFR inhibitors, are used to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. These drugs may be taken orally or intravenously. 

If you believe that you may have lung cancer or you have been exposed to chemicals that lead to lung cancer, it's important to discuss your concerns with your doctor. Remember: if diagnosed early, lung cancer is highly treatable.