What is non-small cell lung cancer?

Non-small cell lung cancer is a common type of lung cancer. Yet, the signs and symptoms are not revealed in the early stage. In addition to this, it begins at the cellular level that causes abnormal cells to reproduce rapidly. Patients with this type of cancer are formed in the tissues of the lung. However, smoking is the primary risk factor that develops cancer. Therefore, it is essential to take immediate treatment; SL Raheja Hospital provides medical supervision under one roof.

Types of Non-small Lung Cancer

Every type has its variant and complications. The types of non-small lung cancer are as follows: 

• Large cell carcinoma

It is a type of cancer that develops in large cells. Large cell carcinoma is developed in multiple organs. 

• Squamous cell carcinoma

This is cancer that forms in the thin, flat cells lining inside the lungs. Squamous cell carcinoma affects the lung, liver, and other organs. 

• Adenocarcinoma

It is cancer that develops in the cells which make substances such as mucus. Adenocarcinoma affects other organs, and the patient may need immediate treatment.

Also Know: Can Lung Cancer cause Anemia?

Does smoking causes non-small lung cancer?

• Yes, it is one of the primary reasons that cause cancer. Smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars develop cancerous cells in the body. It is the most critical risk factor for lung cancer. All three types of non-small lung cancer have been affected due to smoking. If you are exposed to passive smoking, it can also create pulmonary disease. Air pollution and diesel exhaust are also sources of cancer. 
• In case you wonder, does a non-smoker get cancer. You are a non-smoker; you can still get lung cancer. However, non-smokers are less prone to non-small lung cancer.
• When you smoke cigarettes, it enters your lungs from the mouth and nasal cavity. In the beginning, it will not show any symptoms, but yes consistent smokers may encounter symptoms in the early stage.

Why is it called non-small cell lung cancer?

• Non-small cell lung cancer has a larger size cell. The term non-small cell lung cancer is given due to its cell structure under a microscope. Besides, small cell lung cancer appears small and round under a microscope. 
• Furthermore, smoking is dangerous to both types of lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is less aggressive and affects another organ. The signs and symptoms of the cancer are not revealed in the early stage. 
• Patients with non-small cell lung cancer experience the symptoms of fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain. In addition, they also experience blood in the mucus and swelling in the veins. The symptoms of small and non-small cell cancers are almost similar. 
• If you are exposed to secondhand smoke or radiation, you may experience non-small cell lung cancer. It can also happen that cancer condition is related to family history.
• During the consultation with a doctor, you can expect, imaging scan and a few diagnostic tests.

What are the treatment options for non-small lung cancer?

Experts S.L. Raheja Hospital process all types of treatment for non-small lung cancer. Thus, treatment options are as follows:

• Lobectomy of the lung

The oncologist will remove one of the lobes of the lungs. Lobectomy is a surgery that is performed under anesthetic conditions. Experts claim that it is one of the most effective ways to treat lung cancer. However, you may need 4 to 6 days to recover from the procedure. 

• Lung wedge resection

It becomes difficult to remove all the lobes/tumors from the lung. So, lung wedge resection helps to remove some tissue from the lung. The surgeon will provide the patient anesthesia to reduce the pain. It is a minimally invasive surgery, so it causes a little pain. 

• Radiation therapy

Radiotherapy is widely used to treat cancer conditions. The therapy uses radio waves to kill the cancerous cell. It also uses high-energy beams and eliminates all types of cancerous lung cells. Radiotherapy is an outpatient procedure, so you have to visit the hospital for the sessions. At least 4 to 5 sessions of radiotherapy are necessary. 

• Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses a specific type of drug to treat cancer. The drugs only target cancerous cells, and it helps to kill the DNA of the cell. Besides, chemotherapy also shrinks and kills cancer in an instant. You may have to intake pills orally, or the doctor will inject the medicine into your veins. It is essential to know that chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy are different.

Doctors from different specialties work together to treat non-small lung cancer. Thus, SL Raheja Hospital has a team of professional doctors who are highly skilled in treating both types of cancer. You can also expect an operation for your cancer condition. However, it is always better to avoid smoking. A balanced diet and activity are all you need. 

Remember to do a routine check-up; it will help to monitor your health condition. If you notice early symptoms, do not waste time and book an online consultation with the doctor. 

How to get chemotherapy treatment?

We know chemotherapy is an efficient way to treat non-small lung cancer. Therefore,  SL Raheja Hospital offers outpatient chemotherapy sessions at least 4 to 5 times a week. Moreover, the hospital is available at Credihealth to provide their best medical practice. Hence, you can contact Credihealth. Our medical experts will help you to get an appointment for therapy treatment.