Summary about Disease
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 80-85% of all lung cancers. It begins in the cells lining the lungs. NSCLC is a broad term encompassing several subtypes, including adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Treatment and prognosis vary based on the specific type and stage of the cancer.
Symptoms
A persistent cough that worsens or doesn't go away.
Chest pain, often worsened by deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.
Hoarseness.
Weight loss without trying.
Loss of appetite.
Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (phlegm).
Shortness of breath.
Wheezing.
Frequent lung infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
Fatigue.
Swelling of the face, neck, or upper arms.
Causes
Smoking: The leading cause of NSCLC. The risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the length of time smoking.
Secondhand Smoke: Exposure to secondhand smoke also increases the risk.
Radon Exposure: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes.
Asbestos Exposure: Exposure to asbestos, often in occupational settings.
Other Carcinogens: Exposure to other workplace carcinogens, such as arsenic, nickel, chromium, and coal products.
Air Pollution: Long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution.
Genetics: A family history of lung cancer may increase the risk.
Previous Lung Diseases: Conditions like pulmonary fibrosis may increase risk.
Medicine Used
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contribute to cancer growth and survival. Examples include EGFR inhibitors, ALK inhibitors, and BRAF inhibitors.
Immunotherapy: Drugs that help the body's immune system fight cancer. Examples include checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and atezolizumab.
Other Medications: Medications to manage symptoms and side effects of treatment, such as pain relievers, anti-nausea medications, and antibiotics.
Is Communicable
No. Non-small cell lung cancer is not communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Don't Smoke: The most important step is to avoid smoking.
Avoid Secondhand Smoke: Limit exposure to secondhand smoke.
Test Your Home for Radon: Have your home tested for radon and mitigate if levels are high.
Wear Protective Gear: If you work with carcinogens, follow safety protocols and wear appropriate protective gear.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.
Regular Checkups: Discuss lung cancer screening with your doctor, especially if you are at high risk.
How long does an outbreak last?
NSCLC is not an outbreak; it's a chronic disease. The disease progresses over time if left untreated, potentially spanning months to years. With treatment, the timeline varies significantly depending on the stage, type, and response to therapy.
How is it diagnosed?
Imaging Tests: Chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI, PET scan to identify abnormal areas.
Sputum Cytology: Microscopic examination of sputum to look for cancer cells.
Biopsy: Removal of a sample of tissue for microscopic examination. This can be done through bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgery.
Molecular Testing: Analysis of the cancer cells to identify specific genetic mutations or protein expression that can guide treatment decisions.
Liquid Biopsy: Analysis of blood samples to detect circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly. Some people may experience subtle symptoms for months before diagnosis, while others experience rapid onset of severe symptoms. There isn't a fixed progression, and the appearance and severity of symptoms are highly individual. The stage of cancer when diagnosed also significantly impacts the timeline.
Important Considerations
Early Detection: Early detection is crucial for improving treatment outcomes.
Staging: Accurate staging of the cancer is essential for determining the best treatment plan.
Personalized Treatment: Treatment should be tailored to the individual patient, taking into account the specific type and stage of cancer, as well as their overall health and preferences.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Optimal care involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists.
Clinical Trials: Participation in clinical trials may offer access to new and promising treatments.
Palliative Care: Palliative care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life at any stage of the disease.