Lung cancer is the second most common cancer after skin cancer, and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women. Lung cancer mainly occurs in people who are 65 years or older.
The lungs are a pair of organs that are used to breathe. Breathing in, oxygen is inhaled and delivered to the body’s cells to help power them. Exhaled breaths are composed of waste products in the form of carbon dioxide.
Lung cancer begins in lung tissue, and comes in two main types: non-small cell lung cancer, the most common type, and small cell lung cancer. As with other types of cancer, lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer Include:
Many of these symptoms can overlap with other illnesses or conditions. If you experience these symptoms, consult your physician to determine the cause.
Screening for lung cancer is performed before symptoms occur, as it is easier to treat abnormal tissue or tumors while they are still small and localized. By the time symptoms occur, a cancer has grown and spread into surrounding tissue.
Types of Lung Cancer Screening:
In addition to these, your doctor may recommend a biopsy – a tissue sample which is taken and viewed under a microscope to check for cancer cells. Biopsies can take several forms.
Types of Lung Biopsies:
Biopsies may also be taken from other areas of the body where cancer has spread.
Both smokers and non-smokers can develop lung cancer; however, smokers have a higher risk.
Risk Factors for Lung Cancer Include:
Some risk factors cannot be changed, such as age or family history. Taking appropriate precautions may help reduce your risk factor for developing lung cancer.
Reducing Risks for Lung Cancer
Blue Ridge Radiation Oncology can treat many types of lung cancer. External beam radiation therapy is a highly accurate, non-invasive procedure that eliminates the need for surgery.
Types of External Beam Radiation Therapy for Lung Cancer:
Everyone is unique, and no two treatments are alike. The type of treatment chosen depends on several factors, such the size and location of a tumor, as well as the type. Our doctors will carefully consider your treatment options and design the best plan for you.
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