Lung Cancer Awareness Month (LCAM) in 2024 will occur from November 1–30. It’s a time to raise awareness, share stories, and help make a difference.
Lung cancer, a complex and multifaceted disease, encompasses a wide range of types and subtypes. An estimated 7.4 million deaths have occurred from cancer in the 21st century, and an in-depth knowledge of the types of lung cancer could help with early intervention and prevention of the disease. This comprehensive guide will explore the various types of lung cancer and their specific treatments.
NSCLC and SCLC
Lung cancer primarily falls into two categories: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC). NSCLC accounts for the majority of cases, representing 80% to 85% of all lung cancer cases. This category has several subtypes: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell undifferentiated carcinoma. Each of these has distinct features and characteristics. On the other hand, SCLC represents 10% to 15% of the cases.
Adenocarcinoma
Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of NSCLC. It typically develops in the outer regions of the lung, in glands that secrete mucus. Interestingly, adenocarcinoma shows a higher incidence in women, younger individuals, and non-smokers compared to other lung cancer types.
Doctors often detect adenocarcinoma before it spreads, which can lead to better treatment outcomes. For instance, when physicians identify adenocarcinoma in the situ (abnormal tissue lining the lungs), the prognosis is generally more favorable than other lung cancer types.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma occurs in the central part of the lung and is smoking-related. This type of cancer forms in the larger bronchi, where they join the trachea or in one of the main airway branches. Unlike adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma shows a solid link to smoking. Treatment for this type often involves a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy tailored to the specific stage and location of the tumor.
Large Cell Undifferentiated Carcinoma
Large Cell Undifferentiated Carcinoma presents challenges due to its rapid growth and spread. This type can occur anywhere in the lung, making early detection crucial. As fatality rates due to cancer plummet in middle-aged people, an aggressive treatment for this type is required. As a result, a robust treatment combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy is recommended. In some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy may be employed based on specific genetic markers found in tumor cells.
Small Cell Lung Cancer
SCLC is less common but demands immediate attention due to its aggressive nature. Often referred to as “oat-cell” cancer due to the appearance of its cells under a microscope, SCLC typically starts in the bronchi and quickly spreads to other parts of the body. Cancer can be described as a wound that cannot heal. As a result, treatment for SCLC usually involves robust chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While SCLC often responds well to initial treatment, it has a high recurrence rate, necessitating close monitoring and follow-up care.
Rare Lung Cancer Types
Some lung cancer types are pretty rare, posing extra challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
Lung Carcinoid Tumors
Lung Carcinoid tumors account for less than 5% of all cancer cases. They develop from the neuroendocrine cells in the lungs and have two subtypes:
⦁ Typical carcinoids comprise 90% of lung carcinoid cases, grow slowly, and rarely spread beyond the lungs.
⦁ Atypical carcinoids are less common but faster growing and are more likely to metastasize. Metastasis is the spread of cancer from its initial site to other parts of the body.
Treatment for carcinoid tumors primarily involves surgical removal. Doctors may use interventional bronchoscopy techniques for inoperable tumors, such as laser therapy or cryotherapy.
Mesothelioma
While not strictly a lung cancer, mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in a thin tissue called mesothelium, which lines the lungs and abdomen. It’s often associated with asbestos fibers exposure. Prolonged exposure to these fibers can cause shortness of breath and scarring of the lung tissue. Treatment approaches for mesothelioma may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Experienced Mesothelioma Hope doctors provide all these treatments.
Granular Cell Lung Tumors
Granular cell lung tumors are extremely rare. They are typically small, firm, and solitary nodules found either blocking or surrounding the airways. Granular cell lung tumors can occur in anyone, though they are primarily found in females and dark-skinned people. Interestingly, they are often painless and can sometimes be tender or itchy. Treatment options include surgical removal, endoscopic procedures, fulguration (using an electric current to destroy the tumor or laser treatment.
Endnote
Lung cancer requires a solid understanding of all its types to ensure an accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Each type and subtype is different, so treatment should be tailored to specific requirements. As research and technology progress, we’ll be able to gain new insights into treatment options. The future looks promising, and we can hope for even better results for cancer treatments.
This article was written for WHN by Ron, who is from VEED. He is a passionate content marketer with a wealth of knowledge in the online space. His curiosity and enthusiasm led to the development of a constantly expanding portfolio that includes anything from video editing services to publishing his original creations on top-notch websites.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6752112
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/granular-cell
https://worldhealth.net/news/cancer-deaths-plummet-middle-aged-people/
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asbestosis/symptoms-diagnosis
