Treatments Statistics Causes Symptoms Diagnosis CANCER TYPES

BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS LUNG CANCER?

Originating in the lungs, cancerous cells infiltrate bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli linings. Regrettably, symptoms rarely manifest until the disease advances significantly.  Even when lung cancer does cause symptoms, people often mistake them for other problems like infections or attribute them to the long-term effects of smoking, which may delay diagnosis.

The ubiquity of smoking as a significant risk factor is undeniable, contributing to 80-90% of diagnosed cases. Timely diagnosis is the linchpin to exploring and initiating effective treatment options.

 

THE POWER OF LUNG CANCER SCREENING

Screening employs tests or exams to uncover diseases in asymptomatic individuals. The low-dose CAT scan (LDCT) is the recommended lung cancer screening tool. Extensive research supports its efficacy in identifying abnormalities in the lungs. According to the American Cancer Society, annual LDCT screening is advised for individuals aged 55–74 who are in reasonably good health and meet specific criteria:

  • Current or former smokers who have quit in the past 15 years
  • A smoking history of at least 30 pack-years
  • Received counseling for smoking cessation
  • Informed about the benefits, limitations, and potential risks of LDCT screening
  • Access to a facility experienced in lung cancer screening and treatment

LUNG CANCER TESTS: NAVIGATING THE DIAGNOSTIC JOURNEY

When suspicion arises, a series of tests may be ordered to discern the presence of lung cancer and eliminate other potential conditions. Beyond low-dose CT screening, examinations may encompass:

  • Imaging tests: X-ray or CT scans offer a closer look at lung tissues, unveiling any abnormalities.
  • Sputum cytology: Analysis of cough-induced sputum may reveal the presence of lung cancer cells.
  • Tissue sample (biopsy): Abnormal cells may be sampled via bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, or needle biopsy.

DEMYSTIFYING LUNG CANCER CLASSIFICATIONS

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) represent the two primary classifications.

  1. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 80-85% of cases and comprises distinct subtypes:
    • Adenocarcinoma: Often found in the outer regions of the lungs, it is prevalent in both smokers and non-smokers. Some forms, like adenocarcinoma in situ, offer a more favorable prognosis.
    • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originating in flat cells lining the airways, it is linked to smoking and is typically situated in central lung regions.
  1. Large Cell (Undifferentiated) Carcinoma: A swiftly growing cancer, it can appear anywhere in the lung.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), representing 10-15% of cases, is known for its rapid growth and propensity to metastasize early. While responsive to chemotherapy and radiation, recurrence is common.

NAVIGATING LUNG CANCER STAGES

Doctors often classify the stages of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) using the TNM system, which stands for:

  • T — the size of the main tumor: Has it spread to other organs or tissues nearby?
  • N — nodes: Has the cancer metastasized to nearby lymph nodes?
  • M — metastasis: Has the cancer metastasized to distant organs, such as the brain, bones, the other lung, or other areas?

STAGES OF NON-SMALL LUNG CANCER

The stages of NSCLC are:

  • Occult Stage/Hidden Stage: Neither imaging nor a bronchoscopy can detect the cancer at this stage, so doctors can’t pinpoint its exact location.

    STAGE 0: Doctors may detect abnormal cells in the lining of your air passages that may turn cancerous and affect normal tissue nearby, but they haven’t spread throughout other parts of the body. 

    Subtypes include Adenocarcinoma in situ and Squamous cell Carcinoma in situ.

  • Stage I-IV: Progressing through increasing severity, cancer spreads to lymph nodes and distant organs.

STAGE 1

  • STAGE 1: Abnormal cells have turned into cancer but the cancer is located in only one lobe of the lung and nowhere else.

STAGE 2A

  • Stage IIA The lung tumor is found in one lung, is at least 4 cm, and may have metastasized to the lymph nodes..

STAGE 2B

  • Stage IIB In some cases, the lung tumor measures 5 cm and has reached lymph nodes located in the same area of the chest as the original tumor — typically lymph nodes in the lung or close to the bronchus.

STAGE 3

STAGE 4

  • STAGE IV: The cancer has spread to the other lung as well as:
    • Lymph nodes outside the lungs
    • Small lumps in the lining outside the lung
    • Fluid around the lungs (malignant pleural effusion)
    • Fluid around the heart (malignant pericardial effusion)
    • Other organs such as the liver, brain, and bones
 

STAGES OF SMALL CELL LUNG CANCER (SCLC)

LIMITED STAGE

If SCLC is in the limited stage, the cancer has only reached one chest area. 

For instance, it may be found in one lung, or cells may have spread to lymph nodes in the same area of the chest as where the cancer was detected. 

In these cases, radiation is typically needed in only one body area.

EXTENSIVE STAGE

Extensive stage means the cancer has spread all over the lung and may have metastasized: 

  • To the other lung/s.
  • To lymph nodes in the opposite area of the chest.
  • To fluid surrounding the lung or other locations such as the bones.

DIAGNOSTIC SOLUTIONS AT MISKAWAAN INTEGRATIVE CANCER CARE (MICC)

At MICC, we offer advanced diagnostic tests, including Metavectum Tumour Therapy Test, Metavectum Predictive Diagnostic, and PanTum Detect Testing. These innovative technologies provide accurate insights into gene mutations, protein levels, and metabolic changes, enabling personalized treatment plans.

Our approach combines German and Thai expertise in complementary oncology and functional medicine, emphasizing natural interventions. With a global database of effective substances, our dedicated team of specialists is committed to maximizing outcomes while minimizing side effects.

Early detection sets the stage for precision treatments, supported by microbiome, nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Ready to take the first step toward recovery? Schedule a consultation with us today to explore your personalized treatment options at MICC.