Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Symptoms And Treatment Options

Statistics About Lung Cancer :

In 2022, lung cancer is expected to account for approximately 25% of all cancer deaths in the United States.
The lifetime risk of developing lung cancer is approximately 1 in 15 for men and 1 in 17 for women.
The median age at diagnosis for lung cancer is 70 years old.
The five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 21.5%, which means that 21.5% of people diagnosed with lung cancer are still alive five years after their diagnosis.
Survival rate for lung cancer varies depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. For example, the five-year survival rate for localized lung cancer (cancer that has not spread beyond the lungs) is 63%, while the five-year survival rate for lung cancer that has spread to distant organs is only 7%.
Men are more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than women, and African Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with and die from lung cancer than people of other races and ethnicities.
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and about 85% of lung cancer cases are attributable to smoking.
Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer and it is estimated that radon is responsible for approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the United States each year.
Other risk factors for lung cancer include exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, asbestos and certain chemicals.

What is Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)?

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a type of lung cancer that accounts for approximately 80-85% of all lung cancer cases. NSCLC refers to a group of lung cancers that are characterized by the types of cells found in the tumor.

NSCLC is different from small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which is a less common and more aggressive form of lung cancer. Treatment options for NSCLC depend on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Early detection of NSCLC can greatly improve treatment outcomes, which is why regular screening is recommended for people at high risk of developing lung cancer.

What Are The Types Of NSCLC?

There are three main types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):

Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of NSCLC, accounting for approximately 40% of cases. Adenocarcinomas typically develop in the outer regions of the lung and tend to grow more slowly than other types of NSCLC. Adenocarcinomas can also occur in non-smokers and are often associated with genetic mutations.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This type of NSCLC accounts for approximately 25-30% of cases. Squamous cell carcinomas typically develop in the central region of the lung and are strongly associated with smoking. They tend to grow more quickly than adenocarcinomas and can cause symptoms such as coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath.
Large Cell Carcinoma: This is the least common type of NSCLC, accounting for approximately 10-15% of cases. Large cell carcinomas can occur anywhere in the lung and tend to grow and spread quickly. They are often diagnosed at an advanced stage and are more difficult to treat than other types of NSCLC.

In addition to these three main types of NSCLC, there are also some rarer subtypes, such as adenosquamous carcinoma, pleomorphic carcinoma and sarcomatoid carcinoma.

What Is The Life Expectancy NSCLC?

Here are life expectancy of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):

The overall five-year survival rate for NSCLC is around 25%, but survival rates vary widely depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis.
For patients with early-stage NSCLC (stage I), the five-year survival rate is around 60-80%, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
For patients with locally advanced NSCLC (stage II or III), the five-year survival rate is around 20-40%, depending on the extent of the cancer and the response to treatment.
For patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC (stage IV), the five-year survival rate is less than 5%, but some patients may respond well to treatment and have longer survival times.

Other factors that can affect the life expectancy of NSCLC patients include:

The patient’s age and overall health
Whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body
The type of NSCLC (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or large cell carcinoma)
The presence of genetic mutations, such as mutations in the EGFR or ALK genes
The response to treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

What is Symptoms Of NSCLC?

NSCLC may not cause any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. But, as the cancer grows and spreads, it may lead to the following symptoms:

Persistent Cough: A cough that persists for more than two or three weeks or that gets worse over time, may be a symptom of NSCLC. The cough may be dry or produce mucus and it may be accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath.
Chest Pain: Pain in the chest, back or shoulders can be a symptom of NSCLC, especially if it is persistent or gets worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing. The pain may be dull or sharp and it may be felt in one or both sides of the chest.
Shortness Of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can be a symptom of NSCLC, especially if it is accompanied by wheezing or coughing. Shortness of breath may be more noticeable during physical activity or when lying down.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak, even after rest, can be a symptom of NSCLC. Fatigue may be caused by the cancer itself or by the body’s immune response to the cancer.
Unintentional Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying can be a symptom of NSCLC, especially if it is accompanied by loss of appetite or feeling full after eating small amounts. Weight loss may be caused by the cancer itself or by the body’s immune response to the cancer.
Hoarseness Or Wheezing: Changes in the voice, such as hoarseness or wheezing, can be a symptom of NSCLC, especially if it persists for several weeks. These changes may be caused by the tumor pressing on the nerves or the airways.
Coughing Up Blood: Coughing up blood or bloody phlegm can be a symptom of NSCLC, although this is less common. Blood in the sputum may be caused by the tumor eroding into blood vessels or by inflammation in the airways.

Please if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or get worse over time, it’s very helpful and recommended to talk to your healthcare provider for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis for NSCLC.

What Are The Treatment Options For NSCLC?

Surgery: Surgery is often the preferred treatment option for NSCLC when the cancer is localized to the lungs and has not spread to other parts of the body. The type of surgery recommended will depend on the size and location of the tumor. Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and the patient may need to stay in the hospital for several days after the procedure. Risks of surgery include bleeding, infection and damage to surrounding organs or tissues.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. External beam radiation therapy is the most common type of radiation therapy used for NSCLC. This involves aiming a beam of radiation at the tumor from outside the body. Internal radiation therapy or brachytherapy, involves placing radioactive material inside the body near the tumor. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for NSCLC. Side effects of radiation therapy can include fatigue, skin irritation and difficulty swallowing.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for NSCLC if surgery is not an option. The drugs are usually administered through an IV and treatment is typically given in cycles with rest periods in between to allow the body to recover. Side effects of chemotherapy can include nausea, hair loss and increased risk of infection.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment for NSCLC. Targeted therapy is often reserved for patients with certain genetic mutations that make their cancer cells more susceptible to these drugs. Side effects of targeted therapy can include skin rashes, diarrhea and elevated blood pressure.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses drugs that help the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment for NSCLC. The drugs are usually administered through an IV and treatment is given over a period of several months. Side effects of immunotherapy can include fatigue, skin rashes and diarrhea.
Clinical Trials: Clinical trials are studies that test new treatments for NSCLC. Clinical trials may involve new drugs, new combinations of existing drugs or other experimental therapies. Participating in a clinical trial may be an option for some patients with NSCLC who have exhausted other treatment options. Before enrolling in a clinical trial, patients will be given detailed information about the risks and benefits of the trial.

Advice Against Lung Cancer And NSCLC

Don’t smoke or use tobacco products: Smoking is the single most important risk factor for lung cancer. Cigarette smoke contains more than 70 known carcinogens, which are substances that can cause cancer. If you currently smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to reduce your risk of lung cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider about resources to help you quit, such as nicotine replacement therapy, medications or counseling.
Avoid exposure to environmental toxins: In addition to cigarette smoke, exposure to other environmental toxins such as radon, asbestos and air pollution can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that is found in soil and rocks and can seep into homes and buildings. Testing your home for radon and taking steps to reduce your exposure if necessary can help reduce your risk. If you work in an industry that exposes you to asbestos or other harmful chemicals, be sure to follow appropriate safety measures and wear protective equipment.
Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce your risk of lung cancer. These foods contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can help protect your cells from damage. Try to include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet, such as berries, leafy greens, sweet potatoes and bell peppers. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help reduce your risk of developing lung cancer. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your immune function and reduce inflammation in the body. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. This can include activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or dancing.
Get screened: If you are at high risk for lung cancer, such as if you have a history of smoking, your healthcare provider may recommend a screening test such as a low-dose CT scan. Screening can help detect lung cancer at an early stage, when it is more treatable. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether screening is right for you.
Manage your overall health: Taking care of your overall health can also help reduce your risk of developing lung cancer. This includes getting enough sleep, managing stress and avoiding other unhealthy behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of cancer. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep per night and find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature. Limit your alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women or two drinks per day for men.