Why You Shouldn't Ignore Non Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) has been the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for several years, but it’s not talked about nearly enough. More people die from NSCLC than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined, but because it’s not as commonly discussed, many people ignore NSCLC until it’s too late. This article discusses why you shouldn’t ignore this potentially fatal disease and what you can do to ensure that you get treatment early enough to increase your chances of survival.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Non Small Cell Lung Cancer

Smoking is one of the leading causes of cancer in both men and women. A study published by the CDC found that 22% of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are attributable to smoking. The study also found that smoking is responsible for at least 30% of all cancer deaths in both sexes combined, with rates being higher for males than females. In addition to lung cancer, smoking has also been linked to an increased risk for cancers of the larynx, throat, mouth, and esophagus as well as a number of other conditions including emphysema and cardiovascular disease.

The Symptoms of NSCLC

The symptoms of non small cell lung cancer can vary from person to person. It is important to know the symptoms because they could indicate a problem. The most common symptom is a cough that has lasted for more than three weeks, according to the American Cancer Society. Other symptoms can include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, hoarseness or wheezing, coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum, and weight loss.

The Importance of Early Detection

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer in the United States. This type of cancer is more common in men, but it does occur in women as well. It usually starts from cells that line the airways or those found near or around the nerves, and can spread to other parts of the body. NSCLC may be slow growing, so people with this type of lung cancer may not have symptoms for a long time. The first signs of non small cell lung cancer are often shortness of breath and coughing up blood. Other symptoms include weight loss, chest pain and bone pain caused by bone metastases.

The Treatment Options for NSCLC

NSCLC is the most common form of lung cancer, accounting for about 85 percent of all cases. Treatment options for NSCLC can vary, depending on factors such as the size and location of the tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. In some cases, surgery may be a treatment option; in others, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be appropriate.

The Support Available for Patients

Non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC, is the most common form of lung cancer and it's often diagnosed at a late stage. The reason for this is that symptoms don't appear until there are larger lesions in the lungs. Early detection is essential to treatment success rates, so it's important to know the signs and symptoms of NSCLC. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible.