Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a cancer involving the lungs, the two large organs in the chest. Although it is relatively common in smokers and people exposed to second hand smoke, not all types of lung tumors are related to tobacco smoke.

The lungs are two large organs that sit in the chest cavity, on either side of the heart. The are responsible for respiration, also known as breathing. They help us to capture oxygen from the air we breath in the blood. They also allow waste produces, carbon dioxide, to escape back into the air.

More Information:

What is It? Learn more about what we mean when we talk about cancer of the lung.

What Types are There? There are actually several different sub-types of lung cancer. The risk factors, symptoms, treatment and prognosis all vary somewhat between types.

What are the Symptoms? Read about the types of symptoms that patients with lung tumors frequently present with, including how these can differ for different types of cancer.

How is the Diagnosis Made? Several medical imaging studies and tests can be used in making the diagnosis of these cancers. Learn more about them here.

What are the Treatments? Several types of treatment are used for cancers of the lung. While some are the same as for other cancers, such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, others are more specific to lung cancer.

Lung Surgery: There are several types of surgery of the lung that can be used to remove cancers in various locations and of various sizes. The different approaches taken by surgeons are discussed here.

What is the Prognosis? Many factors influence the likely long-term outcome (prognosis) of these cancers. Tumor type, stage of cancer, patient factors and other factors can change the likely results of treatment.

Is There a Cure? While there is no universal cure for these cancers, successful treatment of some cases and types of cancer is becoming more common. Learn more about the progress that has been made toward a cure for this disease.