Treating lung cancer depends on several factors, including the type of lung cancer (non-small cell or small cell), the stage at which it is diagnosed, the patient’s overall health, and individual preferences. Here’s an overview of common treatments:
- Surgery
Lobectomy: Removal of an entire lobe of the lung.
Pneumonectomy: Removal of an entire lung.
Segmentectomy or Wedge Resection: Removal of a smaller portion of the lung.
Surgery is typically an option for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in earlier stages.
- Radiation Therapy
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Delivers high doses of radiation directly to the tumor.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): A form of EBRT that delivers highly focused radiation to a small area.
Brachytherapy: Internal radiation therapy where radioactive material is placed inside the lung or airways.
Often used in combination with other treatments or when surgery isn’t an option.
- Chemotherapy: Involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Commonly used for both small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and advanced stages of NSCLC. Can be given before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) or after surgery (adjuvant therapy).
- Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs that target specific genetic mutations or proteins in cancer cells. Common for patients with specific mutations like EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and others. Examples include drugs like erlotinib, crizotinib, and osimertinib.
- Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Often used for advanced lung cancer. Drugs like pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and atezolizumab are common options.
- Clinical Trials: Patients may consider participating in clinical trials for access to new and experimental treatments. These trials are particularly important for patients with advanced cancer who may have exhausted other treatment options.
- Palliative Care Focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Can be provided alongside curative treatments or as the main approach in advanced stages.
- Lifestyle and Supportive Care
Smoking Cessation: Critical for improving outcomes and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Nutrition and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support recovery and improve overall well-being.
Psychological Support: Counseling or support groups can help with the emotional challenges of cancer treatment.
Treatment plans are usually developed by a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, tailored to the patient’s specific situation. Regular follow-up is necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and to manage any side effects.