Lung Cancer Survival Rates

The prognosis for lung cancer survival varies in each individual. The treatments prescribed may affect each person differently, and the physical health of the patient can alter the predicted outcome. Current defenses against non small-cell (NSCLC) and small-cell (SCLC) include a broad range of chemotherapy drugs. Post-operative chemo is used after surgical resection of the malignant tissue to prevent recurrence.

Prognosis

The five and ten year cancer survival percentages represent cancer-free patients. The numbers vary, but SCLC cases have the highest mortality rate, while NSCLC cases have favorable outcomes more often. While these numbers make for convenient data references, they do little to help patients and doctors cope with the realities of treating the disease.

Surviving a bout of lung cancer has to do with the patient's age, health, pre-existing medical conditions and the stage the disease is in. Proper diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of survival. A staging system is used to classify the progression of NSCLC. This system indicates tumor size, the degree of metastasis (spreading) if any and if the lymph nodes are being affected.

Stage 1a and 1b indicate a localized tumor which can be removed with surgery. Stage 2a and 2b mean the tumor is larger than 3 centimeters and may be present in the lymph nodes. Advanced stages are considered stage 3b to 4b where the tumor is affecting vital organs or structures, or the cancer has metastasized to other areas of the body. Depending on the size of the infected area, the surgeon will remove a triangular section of lung, a lobe or an entire lung. Chemotherapy typically follows the surgery.

In advanced stage SCLC, doctors reduce pain using brachytherapy or radiation to shrink tumors. Because metastasis is a high probability, the medical community does not use this staging system to give the SCLC patient a prognosis. It is either 'extensive' or 'limited.'

After Surgery

Doctors will work with patients to monitor their health after treatment. A checkup every few months will determine whether the individual is still cancer free, or if further therapy is necessary. If no signs of cancer are present after five years, the disease is said to be in remission.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Lung Cancer Survival Rates and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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Lung Cancer Info - Be Aware

Important Lung Cancer Info

Having the right lung cancer info can make it easier for patients and their families to deal with this disease. The knowledge can empower decisions and help those involved throughout the treatment process.

Definition

Lung cancer begins in the lung tissue, the lining of the airways (squamous cell), or in the spaces between organs in the chest cavity. It is grouped into non small cell and small cell types (NSCLC and SCLC, resp.) Doctors diagnose the type and stage of the disease based on test results from throat culture samples, chest imaging and biopsies. This disease is the biggest cancer-related killer of both men and women worldwide.

Risk Factors

Certain conditions and lifestyle habits increase the chances of developing either NSCLC or SCLC. Smokers are at greatest risk, as cigarette smoke contains about sixty carcinogenic compounds. Being around second hand smoke is also dangerous. Additional contributing factors include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and pipe and chewing tobacco use.

Many chemicals found in the environment and the air we breathe are carcinogenic as well. Exposure to asbestos can cause a form of cancer called mesothelioma which often begins in the protective lining around the lungs. Radon gas, arsenic, nickel and chromium are also cancer-causing agents. Radon is specifically addressed by the National Institute of Health as it is odorless, invisible and can be found in the home.

Prevention

Everyone can take steps to prevent this deadly disease. Smokers who quit decrease their risk exponentially for every year they stay smoke-free. People who are around smokers can avoid them while they smoke. People living in heavily polluted areas can wear face masks when walking in the city. To avoid radon, find out how to test for this gas in the home and make sure the levels are safe.

Learn about avoiding other environmental risks, such as asbestos. This agent is often present in older buildings. Besides avoiding carcinogens, exercise regularly and eat fruits and vegetables with antioxidants. These lifestyle changes have been shown to decrease cancer risks.

Learning about cancer is the best way to prevent it, and defeat it. Regular check-ups will help identify abnormalities early on.

I for one know there's a ton of Lung Cancer Articles scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Lung Cancer Info and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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Treatments of Lung Cancer

Treatments of lung cancer depends on a number of factors, including the type of lung cancer (non-small or small cell lung cancer), the size, location, and extent of the tumor, and the general health of the patient. Different treatments and combinations of treatments may be used to reduce severe symptoms to improve quality of life and to control this cancer.

Surgery Options for Lung Cancer Segmental or wedge resection: An operation to remove a small part or wedge of the affected lung.

Lobectomy: The surgeon removes an entire lobe of the affected lung.

Pneumonectomy: The surgeon removes the entire lung.

Some patients are unable to undergo surgery for other health reasons and some tumors are inoperable (cannot be removed by surgery) because of the size or location. For now, surgery is the only treatment that offers an ultimate cure. However, only half of patients with this cancer in lungs are strong enough to be considered surgical candidates.

Medications Used For Lung Cancer Chemotherapy: An anticancer drug that is used to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used to control cancer growth or to relieve symptoms. If it is used just to control symptoms, it is a palliative treatment. Even after the cancer has been removed from the lung, the cancer cells might still be present in nearby tissue or somewhere else in the body.

Radiation or Radiotherapy Therapy: High-energy rays to exterminate the cancer cells to a limited area and only affect cancer cells within that area. Radiation treatment can also be used before undergoing surgery to minimize the tumor, or after surgery to wipe out any cancer cells remaining in the treated area.

Radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy is often used as a primary or first treatment instead of surgery. Radiation treatment can also be used to relieve other symptoms such as shortness of breath or pain.

Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): This treatment is given to prevent secondary tumors from forming in the brain. Some patients may have this radiation treatment to the brain even though cancer may not have yet been found.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Laser therapy involving a specific chemical injected into the bloodstream and absorbed by cells in the tissues and organs of the body. The chemical quickly disperses from normal cells but stay longer in the cancer cells. A laser is then aimed at the cancer, which activates the chemical into killing the cancer cells.

When the cancer cannot be removed through surgery, photodynamic therapy might be used to decrease symptoms of lung cancer such as controlling bleeding or relieving breathing problems due to clogged-up airways. Photodynamic therapy can also treat smaller tumors in those patients whom usual treatments for lung cancer are not suitable.

Clinical trials: Evaluations of new ways to treat cancer. Sometimes trials are an option for many lung cancer patients to receive treatment not yet in the open market - treatments of lung cancer.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Treatments For Lung Cancer and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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First Signs of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a major killer of men and women across the country. Air pollutants, secondhand smoke, cigarette smoking especially, and other causative factors contribute to the disease.

Most of us think that the lung cancer is mostly common among the cigarette smokers and it is true that the vast majority of cases are or were smokers. But there are non-smokers do get lung cancer and smokers who don't get it.

Signs of lung cancer are often not apparent in the early stages. However it is better to identify lung cancer as possible.

The most common early symptom of lung cancer is haemoptysis (coughing up blood). Consider this early symptom a warning sign of a cancer, which may be curable.

If you find that you are coughing up blood, you should immediately contact your doctor , especially if you are 40 years of age, or older, with a long-term smoking habit.

Some of the primary signs include:

* Hacking, persistent cough

* Coughing up blood

* Shortness of breath

* Wheezing

* Chest pain

* Lost appetite

* Lost weight

* Recurring bronchitis or pneumonia

The above symptoms also being the symptoms of many other lung problems, so it is always advisable to see a physician to ascertain the cause

Secondary signs of simple cell lung cancer include:

* Weakness

* Difficulty swallowing

* Changes in nails

* Hoarse or raspy voice

* High fever

* Swelling of facial features

It's true that most symptoms of lung cancer do not show themselves until the disease is in its advanced stages.

However, sometimes people exhibit signs early in the disease's development. It is imperative that the first notice of symptoms or concern sends you straight to the doctor.

The sooner treatment is begun, the better. A cure is possible if caught early enough and, if not, then a better quality of life and more of it.

When lung cancer spreads to other parts of the body, organs and bones, referred to as 'metastasizing', signs and symptoms include:

* Aching and sharp bone pain

* Changes in the brain that exhibit themselves through weakness, numbness, dizziness, and seizure

* Jaundice (whites of eyes, nails, and skin yellow

* Masses near the skin's surface

* Headaches

* Numbness and loss of sensation in your extremities

All of these signs and symptoms of lung cancer may be caused by other health problems. The only way to know for sure is to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

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Lung Cancer Survival Rate - Understand Your Prognosis And Your Chances To Recover From Lung Cancer

Lung cancer survival rate refers to the percentage of patients who manage to survive to the disease, for a specific period of time, after they are diagnosed as developing cancer, comparably with healthy people, bearing in mind the stage and the location of the cancer.

Lung cancer survival rate is based on the experience of large groups of patients and usually relate to the five years survival rate. However, we cannot predict what would happen to a particular patient considering the disparity that exists between each individual whether suffering from the disease or not.

The lung cancer survival rate depends on many factors such as the stage and the type of the disease, if there are symptoms like coughing or difficult breathing, the patient's health condition and whether the illness has just been detected or has reappeared.

There are two main types of cancer: Non small cell lung cancer very common and spreads out slowly than small cell cancer.

The stage of the cancer refers to how much the disease did spread within the lungs and the other parts of body. The information gathered would directly influence the treatment options and monitors the progress. There are many cancer stages depending whether it concerns the small cell lung cancer or non small cell type.

Stages of the first type are: limited stage, extensive stage and recurrent. the stages concerning the second type include, occult, stages 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 in addition to recurrent.

The symptoms can give indications about the illness and how it is developed. Accordingly, specialists might conclude to a specific rate.

Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred directly influences lung cancer survival rate. In addition to the patient's general health and her or his ability to bear one of the advised treatment options.

Statistics do not mention if the patients that survived the cancer are still under treatment or achieved remission. There are other rates, which deliver specific information such as the disease-free rates, the number of survivors who achieved remission and no longer have cancer.

The progression free survival rate indicates the number of patients who still have the disease, however, the illness isn't spreading because they experienced a certain success with their treatment.

Lung cancer survival rate helps, both your doctor and you, understand your prognosis and your chances to achieve remission by developing a more appropriate and specific treatment plan.

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How Does Lung Cancer Become Fatal?

Lung cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer, but how does it become fatal? Lung cancer is one of the easiest-spreading cancers of them all, often moving on to other parts of the body as well. Lung cancer will close down the breathing passages so one will basically suffocate because their blood is not getting enough oxygen. And when the bloodstream is not carrying enough oxygen, it means that the brain is also not getting enough oxygen. This is a serious problem and can often lead to death.

With some other types of cancer there are sometimes options for operations involving the removal of certain organs or other parts of the body... however, that is a very difficult thing with lung cancer because lungs are not easily removed from the body, though it is possible. Usually if there is a cancer or other disease affecting one lung, it will be the same for the other as well. This dilemma poses significant problems to trying to remove one of the lungs.

Lung cancer is one of the greatest health challenges that can face anyone. It is sometimes in the form of mesothelioma, which is a type of lung cancer closely related to asbestosis. These diseases are caused by asbestos fibers entering into the lungs (being inhaled). Asbestos is a deadly material that is naturally found in many different places around the world. It is still being mined to this day. Asbestos is one of the most functional materials that are available for the building and manufacturing process. Because asbestos is so dangerous, it has been outlawed in a number of developing nations, but not in many others. Canada and Russia, for example, are still huge mining nations and actively mine asbestos. Brazil is another one of the mainstream exporters of asbestos.

If you have been exposes to asbestos and have developed lung cancer, it is important to keep up with the recommended treatments that your doctor and hospital staff are providing. Consult with a mesothelioma attorney if you feel like you might have been exposed wrongly to asbestos because of safety neglect. Do not let the issue sleep until you feel like you have received justice--if there is something out of place with the kind of exposure that you had to the lung-cancer forming asbestos. Thousands of companies still use asbestos, but with improper working procedures it can lead to exposure and then deadly lung cancer. Talk with an attorney about your situation before delaying more.

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Lung Cancer Tumours

Lung Cancer Tumors can be aggressive and deadly, stemming from many different sources.

As the number one cause of cancer deaths in both the United States and across the world, lung cancer is a condition that has generated a considerable amount of research and treatment options.  While the blame for such tumors often descends upon smokers and tobacco companies, there are millions who develop tumors without having ever smoked a single cigarette.  Indeed, environmental factors play an equal cause in tumor development.  While some tumors are extremely aggressive and have limited treatment capacities, there are others which pose a minimum of danger to a patient.

All cancer tumors depend upon the faulty reproduction cycles of cells in the human body.  Lung tumors are, naturally, formed in the respiration tissue of the body, occurring when the genetic code for cell division is faulty or incomplete.  With billions of cells dividing constantly, this is a commonplace occurrence; the only difference between a cancerous cell and a normally-destroyed cell is how quickly the reaction takes place.  Cancerous growths form when the cells divide at a rate that cannot be contained by protective white blood cells.  These tumors take up extreme amounts of nutrients, oxygen, and blood, eventually shutting down the organ completely.

Lung tumors often form when the ability to combat cells is compromised by intake of deadly fumes or chemicals.  Tobacco smoke is certainly foremost among such chemicals in today's society, but is far from the only source.  Tenants living or employees working in a building with asbestos features can develop cancerous tumors or lung failure at a higher rate than smokers, given how devastating the asbestos shards are to lung function.  Likewise, mine workers who spend most of the day inhaling dust and metallic fragments have a propensity to developing cancer formations in their lungs.  Indeed, the amount of coal dust generated by a mine is so high that an entire town has a significantly higher risk of developing cancerous tumors.  Yet the worst offender is radon gas; produced by x-rays and radioactive material, this gas can cause tumors to develop in as little as a year of exposure.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Lung cancer Tumors and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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Lung Cancer Symptoms

Most of the cases of this disease are asymptomatic - the disease is revealed as a result of routine radiological examination of the chest, but some patients also show symptoms and signs. The main symptoms include cough, dyspnea, wheeze, stridor and sometimes pneumonia due to bronchial obstruction.

If the tumour grows within the lung tissue it can cause pain. Sometimes patient can demonstrate symptoms of abscess formation due to tumour caviation. The spreading of tumour regionally can also result in dysphagia due to esophageal compression, hoarseness due to laryngeal nerve paralysis, dyspnea due to phrenic nerve paralysis and horner syndrome due to sympathetic nerve paralysis. Pancoasts syndrome is result of extension of tumour in the apex of the lungs which involves last cervical and first and second thoracic nerves compression of the nerves results in shoulder pain.

Cancer can spread in practically all organs. This type of cancer can spread in brain causing some neurological problems, in bones causing pain and fractures, bone marrow invasion causing cytopenias, liver metastases resulting in biochemical imbalance, adrenal metastases is also common but it does not results in insufficiency. systemic symptoms like anorexia, cachexia, suppressed immunity, weight loss, fever are general symptoms practically found in all patients in the later stages.

In some patients we can find hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia due to ectopic parathyroid hormone releasing tumours.

Skeletal-connective tissue syndrome that is clubbing of fingers can also be seen in some patients. Some times retinal blindness is seen in patients suffering from small cell cancer.

Dermatological manifestations like dermatomyositis and acanthosis nigricans are also seen in some patients but very rarely.

Did you know that Lung Cancer can be Treated. If you want to know more about the treatment then feel free to visit Lung Cancer Treatment

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Early Detection of Lung Cancer Could Be Affected by Bias

According to the results of a survey of 1,500 adult Americans as reported by ABC News, "a majority of Americans, including many health-care workers, believe that people who have lung cancer are at least partly to blame for their disease."

The report goes on to say that, in spite of the disease residing as the number-one cause of cancer deaths in this country, this bias leads to reduced resources to fight the disease. It also adds shame and guilt to the already difficult situation that cancer patients face.

The ABC story quotes Laurie Fenton Ambrose, president and CEO of Lung Cancer Alliance. In the article, Ambrose states the following:

"Sadly, the stigma has been used to justify under-funding, not only of research but also of programs for early detection and treatment."

This response is probably, in part, due to the success of anti-smoking campaigns.

Most people have learned that smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer. Unfortunately, many of them appear to have made the leap to believing that smoking is the only cause.

The fact is that about 90 percent of lung cancer deaths in men and nearly 80 percent of lung cancer deaths in women are caused by smoking.

However, that means that thousands of the approximately 161,000 people in the U.S. who die of lung cancer are not smokers. This should give pause to those who hold the bias.

But even if so many non-smokers didn't develop the disease and smoking were the only cause, it is difficult to justify the bias.

Although smoking is the number-one risk factor, it is not the only one. Family history plays a significant role, as does exposure to other environmental materials, such as asbestos and radon.

It seems doubtful that many people would blame a worker who, even knowingly, came into contact with a hazardous material every day for developing the disease. Nor would most people refuse to help fund diabetes research even though poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle are important risk factors for that disorder.

It seems clear that lung cancer, which kills more people than melanoma, kidney, prostate, liver, breast and colon cancers combined, deserves at least the amount of attention breast cancer receives today.

Too many lives depend on it.

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Treatments for Lung Cancer - What To Expect

Existing and Emerging Treatments for Lung Cancer

A plethora of new treatments for lung cancer are being tested in ongoing clinical trials. While several promising methods of detection and therapy should be available to the public in the next few years, doctors still rely on existing methods for the best results in the general population.

Current Options

Doctors prescribe a handful of treatment methods depending on the stage of the patient's cancer. There are specialties within each option, but all stem from surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Lung surgery may be performed for stage 1, 2 or 3 non small cell carcinoma (NSCLC) patients. Prior to the operation, patients are tested for good lung health and other abnormalities.

Depending on the severity of the cancer, a triangular wedge of affected tissue, an entire lobe, or an entire lung will be removed.

Chemotherapy is usually the first line therapy for advanced small cell carcinoma and the second line therapy for NSCLC. Radiation therapies may be used in conjunction with either of these methods to precisely target and shrink a tumor. This method is often used when a malignant growth is in the brain or located near or in a vital structure of the body.

Alternatives

Oncologists implement other cancer-fighting technologies when appropriate. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the process of heating and killing malignant cells with RF current. The current travels through a needle inserted into the tumor. RFA may not require general anesthesia and is a quick procedure.

The opposite of RFA is cryosurgery, where malignant cells are frozen to death. Also know as cryoablation, it a new process that is still being tested. A more widely used treatment option is laser surgery.

The intense light from a laser is precise and powerful enough to kill cancer cells. Unfortunately, this precision is best for palliative care. Radiologists use this therapy to alleviate symptoms associated with the disease.

Ongoing clinical trials are testing cures for lung cancer in a variety of populations. Trials are available for specific gene pools, certain types of carcinomas and different age and lifestyle groups. Although participants may experience side effects, all trials are protected by heavy international regulations.

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How To Fight The Spread Of Lung Cancer

Fighting The Spread Of Lung Cancer Requires Commitment, But Is Achievable If Done Correctly.

The greatest cause of concern for any cancer formation, from prostate cancer to bone marrow cancer, is that the malfunctioning cells will divide rapidly, enter the blood stream or lymph nodes, and spread to other parts of a human body.  Doctors and oncologists measure and study how lung cancer spreads to determine at which rate and time the condition has progressed; at a particular point it may be too late to administer medical treatment to victims.  As malignant tumors form, they seek to amalgamate and take over the entire organ.  This process is known as metastasis, while malignant tumors that develop away from the initial site are called metastases.  A lung metastases growth will occur everywhere except in the lungs, but is still referred to as cancer of the lungs due to the origin.

The spread of cancerous cells must be contained at all cost with medical treatment.  Chemotherapy is the most popular tool to halt cancer spreading in the respiratory organs (as well as most other types of cancer), as the chemicals will immediately go to work on killing rapidly dividing cells.  Chemotherapy works on the entire human body, so that a cancer that has the potential to spread will not find any "hiding places" if the chemicals are efficient.  Chemotherapy is not a bulletproof solution, however, and further radiation treatment or surgery is required to slow or reverse tumor growth.

As the cancerous tumor grows larger, the odds of it gaining access to new parts of a body increases as well.  The human immune system functions on white blood cells attacking parasitic growths, but the vast majority of cancers are too strong to be killed off by normal immunity.  As the white blood cells are dispatched, they too can become hosts to the virulent cell growth, and in transport through the circulatory system can cause new growths throughout the body.  It is more common to see other metastasis develop in the lungs than for lung cancer to develop in other parts of the body, because lung tissue is far more delicate than other organs in the body

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Lung Cancer Spread and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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Treatment for Lung Cancer

Recent treatment for lung cancer advances

Recent and ongoing clinical trials surrounding lung cancer treatment is offering new hope to more and more patients. Several recent breakthroughs are offering an extension of life and a quality improvement in the time they provide. In some instances, these new treatments are yielding remission in a significant percentage of patients, something unthinkable only five years ago.

1) Gefitnib (brand name Iressa) drug treatment for Non-small cell lung cancers.

This new drug therapy is showing very positive results for some types of advanced lung cancers. During a phase 3 clinical trial in Japan, this drug showed a 40% improvement of positive response versus the traditional chemotherapy combination of carboplatin plus paclitaxel.

Patients receiving the older drug combination showed only a 30.7% rate of positive response, while gefitnib showed a documented 73.7% rate of positive response. It also showed an increased survival period of 10.8 months versus 5.4 months. However, for gefitnib to be effective, patients must have a somewhat common genetic mutation to their tumor that makes the cancer cells sensitive the active coupounds found in gefitinib.

This drug has limited availability in the United States because earlier clinical trials there failed to identify the necessary gene mutation to maximize its effectiveness.

2) In a different trial, a different tumor genetic mutation enhanced the effectiveness of adding vadimezan, sometimes referred to as ASA404 to standard chemotherapy treatments. The action of this drug is to weaken and destroy the blood vessels that feed tumor growth. Vadimezan was to enter phase III trials in 2010, and may be more widely available once those trials are complete.

3)Photodynamic treatment is growing in popularity for the treatment of stage 0 and stage 1 lung cancers. This lung cancer treatment is two stage: administration of a drug to sensitize fast-growing cells to certain light bandwidths, then using an endoscopic coherent light to bath the surface of the airways with laser light. Only the photo-sensitive cells are destroyed, presumably the tumor cells.

There are also some supporting treatments and palliative, symptom alleviating treatments that significantly impact the quality and length of life which lung cancer patients can expect to enjoy. The key is working with you doctor to put together a plan meets your personal needs.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Treatment For Lung Cancer and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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True Facts About Small Cell Lung Cancer

Small cell lung cancer is also known as oat cell cancer. This is less common than non-small cell lung cancer. The typical characteristic of this type of cancer is that it grows more rapidly and is more prone to spread to other organs of your body. This starts in any one of the larger breathing tubes, grows quickly and attains larger size at the time of diagnosis.

Causes: 
Most of the causes for this cancer is the consequence of tobacco smoking. Smoking causes almost 87% of lung cancers and the others may be due to tobacco smoke exposure. Other etiologies of this cancer include occupational hazards such as exposure to cancer-causing agents and personal or family history of lung cancer. Doctors recommend avoiding smoking and exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Symptoms: Persistent coughing, continuous pain in the thoracic cavity, dyspnea, and blood during coughing are the initial symptoms of this cancer. Once this reaches the advanced stage, symptoms vary depending upon the organ where it metastasized. Once the small cell lung cancer develops metastasis in the brain, possibilities of loss memory and constant headache develop.

Diagnosis: 
CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays can easily diagnose this type of cancer. By using these diagnostic methods, the location, size, and shape of the tumor can easily be detected. Sometimes lung biopsy and sputum cytology are more helpful than any other diagnostic procedure.

Treatment:
Limited or extensive are the two forms that usually occur as small cell lung cancer. Usually by the time this cancer is found it has multiplied progressively, and surgery is questionable to cure the cancer. The preferred treatment for this disease is surgery combined with chemotherapy.

Limited stage of small cell lung cancer
Even you are suffering from a limited stage of small cell lung cancer, most physicians suggest chemotherapy. Your physician may prefer surgery followed by chemotherapy if your lung consists of single nodule without any other evidence of cancer elsewhere. The most common combination of drugs used is carboplatin or cisplatin combined with etoposide, continued for six months. Some evidence shows that adding paclitaxel or topotecan with this combination may increase the survival rate.

In the early stages of this cancer, radiation therapy may produce successful results rather than surgery or chemotherapy. Difficulty breathing and trouble swallowing after radiation exposure may occur. Chest radiation therapy is contraindicated in other types of serious health problems or severe lung disease.

Extensive stage of small cell lung cancer Chemotherapy alone can alleviate symptoms in the case of extensive stage of this cancer. The most preferred drug combination therapy is cisplatin or carboplatin along with etoposide. This combination improves blood cell count. After eight months the small cell lung cancer is immune to this treatment and you may opt for a second type of chemotherapy which is usually only for a short time. The common drugs used as second type of chemotherapy include docetaxel, irinotecan, gemcitabine, vinorelbine, methotrexate, paclitaxel, topotecan, ifofamide, and cyclophosphamide. Once a metastasis forms either in bone or brain, radiation therapy is sometimes used for this type of cancer in lungs.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about Small Cell Lung Cancer and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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The Lung Cancer Conundrum

Yul Brynner born on July 11th 1920 in Vladivostok, Russia, remains one of the most unique, somewhat mysterious but highly recognizable and beloved stars of his time. Actor, Director, Narrator, star of stage and screen. He is best known to me as an actor. He was the King in "The King and I" and won an Oscar for that role. " The Ten Commandments," "The Magnificent Seven" "Solomon and Sheba". Just to name a few. Who could forget the unrelenting robot/gunslinger in "Westworld" that chased me through my mid-seventies nightmares. So many movies, television and stage appearances that to list them all would be to write a separate column. His face, voice and that unmistakable bald head, part of the very mystic which made him so memorable.

For so many of us, the legacy of Yul Brynner is wrapped up in the memory of the anti-smoking commercial that aired after his death from lung cancer in 1985. I just saw it for the first time in years on my computer and it put a lump in my throat. That image of the man who had lost his struggle but found a way to fight on. I respect that and respect him for it.

In 2007, I was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer and faced with the facts that the odds were not good. I have survived for two years and now run a non profit organization for funding lung cancer research and offering support to patients and families.

The "Yul Brynner effect" as I now call it is still as effective today as it was 20 years ago and that might not necessarily be a good thing anymore.

Tell anyone you meet that you have lung cancer and the first question back to you is "did you or do you smoke?"

The willingness of someone to donate to a cause is subject to several factors. First being their financial ability to give, second is the ability to connect to the cause. We have been pounding it into peoples' heads for years that lung cancer is a smokers' issue, therefore if I don't smoke, lung cancer is not my issue. It's that "you did it to yourself," disconnect coupled with the extremely high mortality rate that keeps lung cancer in the closet even though lung cancer will kill more people this year then breast, colon and prostate cancer combined.

Somehow we have to move beyond that powerful Yul Brynner image and replace it with a new face and a voice, one that says, " How and why it happened to you is not as important as what we need to do to cure you and keep future generations safe from cancer's leading killer." One that will assist research facilities all over the country in educating and employing the next generation of scientists and researchers by generating the funds needed.

Maybe the new face of Lung cancer is in your mirror and the voice is the one in your head telling you to do something now before it is a necessity for a loved one.

Ultimately Yul's message was a simple, powerful message from a man who like many of us realized too late how precious life is and that it must be defended at all costs. A warning to do the things necessary today to help prolong your tomorrows. 24 years later still powerful, still meaningful but somehow lost in the chaos of the day.

Tim Giardina is the co-founder and President of the GFLCCO as well as a current small cell lung cancer survivor. The GFLCCO is developing a World Wide network of supporters with facts and information regarding lung cancer, lung cancer treatment, proper diets and exercise and alternative medicines and treatments as well as valuable links to a deep pool of resourses for patients and their families. The primary function of the GFLCCO is to support Scientists by funding research for a cure. If you would like to learn more about the GFLCCO, need information or support or would be interested in reading more of Tim's work, please visit us at http://www.gflcco.com We are a non profit organization that also relies on the support of others to carry on with our work, if you find our site useful, your support would be greatly appreciated.

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Lung Cancer - An Overview of This Common But Tragic Condition

Lung cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer. In fact, it is the most common cancer in the US, with over 220,000 people being diagnosed with it each year. The number of deaths caused by this condition is around 150,000 per annum, in the US alone. These are the main reasons why learning the most important things about the condition is essential.

Lung cancer is characterized by the transformation of normal lung cells into abnormal cells. These abnormal cells grow rapidly and uncontrollably to form a malignant tumor. This usually happens in walls of the bronchi.

There are over 20 types of lung cancer, but four have been identified as the most commonly occurring. These four have been separated into two groups; non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. The most common kind of non-small cell cancer of the lungs is adenocarcinoma. It accounts for around 40% of all cases. The most typical thing for it is that it is formed in the outer edges of the lungs and in the smaller airways, in particular.

Squamous cell carcinoma is another type of non-small cell lung cancer. It is responsible for approximately 30% of all cases. The tumor usually grows in the central bronchi, which are the largest branches of the bronchi tree. This form of the condition is the easiest to detect and to treat successfully.

The large-cell carcinomas affect between 10% and 15% of all lung cancer patients. These tumors usually grown in the outer edges of the lungs and tend to spread quickly to nearby tissues and lymph nodes.

Small cell lung cancer is not particularly common, but it is extremely aggressive. It starts in the central bronchi, but has no noticeable symptoms until the later stages of the tumor development. Furthermore, it tends to spread rapidly to other organs and tissues.

Lung cancer is directly linked to smoking and cigarette smoking, in particular. Roughly 4 out of 5 patients are smokers. It has been estimated that up to 90% of all cases are arising directly from the use of tobacco. All these facts suggest that smokers have the highest risk of developing this condition. Pipe and tobacco smokers as well as passive smokers are also more likely to develop this type of cancer. The higher risk is associated with the fact that tobacco contains various cancer-causing and carcinogenic chemical compounds.

Asbestos exposure is also correlated to the development of lung cancer. Thankfully, the use of this material is limited or completely banned in many countries. The exposure to radiation coming from the decay of radon gas is also a serious risk factor. Around 10% of all cases of the condition are estimated to be due to this factor. The presence of specific genes may also increase the risk in some individuals.

Approximately 25% of all people who have lung cancer do not experience any symptoms. Despite this, there are some common warning signs associated with the condition. Coughing up blood is the most disturbing symptom. Smokers and ex-smokers might start having a new cough that is persistent and untypical for them. Chest pain and shortness of breath are other common warning signs. Having repeated respiratory infections might also signal that you have the condition.

Lung cancer is diagnosed after a series of tests. The doctor usually performs an x-ray first, after noticing disturbing symptoms. A CT scan of the chest is also performed. A biopsy is done to confirm the condition. Further tests are necessary to determine the type of lung cancer the patient has.

Lung cancer treatment usually begins with surgery. The surgeons may remove only the tumor, the tumor with part of the lung or the whole lung. Cryosurgery, the killing of the tumor by freezing it, is also an option. The treatment usually continues with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It should be pointed out that number of patients surviving five years after treatment is around 15%. For this reason, prevention is extremely important.

The best method for this cancer prevention is not smoking. If you smoke, but quit now; your risk will start decreasing automatically. It has been estimated that your risk will be similar to a nonsmoker after 15 years of cessation. Try to avoid exposure to cigarette smoke. Take protective measures if you work with dangerous material such as asbestos.

James has been writing articles about health issues for over 5 years. Please visit his latest website about cancer at the Cancer Information Center, with help relating to the Lung Cancer, with straight talk for anyone affected by this disease.

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Information About Lung Cancer Symptoms

The most common symptoms of lung cancer are coughing, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, a dull, aching, unrelentant chest pain, wheezing, hoarseness and persistent respiratory infections.

Any onset of persistent coughing, especially in a smoker or former smoker. should be checked out as soon as possible by a doctor.

The same is true of the coughing up of any amount of blood, even if it seems to be only a minimal amount. It may be nothing at all but then again, it might be something of major importance.

Shortness of breath may be a sign of an increase of the fluid which is around the lung. The medical name for this is pleural effusion. Another cause of shortness of breath may be a tumor in the lung. Either of these conditions may well cause a blockage which prevents the required amount of air from flowing into the lung.

Medical professional say that their studies have determined that approximately one fourth of the people suffering from lung cancer experience dull, aching, unrelenting chest pains.

Both wheezing and hoarseness are also possible symptoms of lung cancer. They may well be signs of a possible blockage or inflammation which is caused by lung cancer.

Repeated and persistent bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia or any kind of what appears to be respiratory infection may be lung cancer. It may not be, but then again it may and whatever it is, it should be checked out and taken care of.

The symptoms which may occur depend upon the size and the location of the tumor or tumors.

Medical professionals claim that their studies show that thirty to forty percent of the cases of lung cancer which they have studied are metastic, that is they spread from the initial part of the body where they have grown to other parts of the body, even if they are not attached to each other. In the majority of cases, lung cancer has been shown to spread for major parts of the body, those parts being the liver, the adrenal glands, the bones and the brain.

Don't "wait and see what happens" don't "wait and see if the symptoms get worse". If you go to the doctor and it is shown that these signs do not indicate that you have cancer, don't look at it as wasted money, celebrate. If you go to the doctor and find that you do have cancer, then celebrate that you have acted upon the signs immediately, it may well make a difference in whether you can be helped, that is cured, or not.

You only have one body, take care of it, protect it from harm. To borrow from an old commercial, "the life you save may be your own".

For more information about lung cancer symptoms visit our site http://www.howcurecancer.com.

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Lung Cancer Signs

Recognizing Lung Cancer Signs

One of the most challenging aspects of the disease for clinicians and patients alike is how difficult it can be to recognize lung cancer signs and symptoms from the "background noise" of everyday life. It is particularly hard in that 85% of lung carcinoma patients are smokers. The standard state of a smokers health does not contrast significantly with the early lung cancer signs.

Some of the typical early signs of lung carcinoma include:

-appearance of a new cough or a change in frequency/vigor of an existing cough

The cough may start because tumors are restricting airflow, or causing inflammation in the surrounding tissue. Tumors can limit oxygen exchange, creating a choking feeling or the desire to "clear" ones lungs.

-cough that produces specks of blood

Small vascular tumors are often prone to bleeding, and other tumors can weaken capillary walls, leading to micro-bleeding into the airways.

-wheezing and shortness of breath

These signs are additional byproducts of the restricted airways and accumulation of fluid behind obstructions

-increased incidence of pneumonia

As fluid is trapped behind tumors or in partially blocked airways, the incidence of secondary pneumonia is high. Many cancers are found in Stage 2 or Stage 3 because of a pneumonia caused in part by the presence of the cancer in the lungs.

-hoarse voice and difficulty swallowing

The pressure of tumors, particularly larger non-small cell carcinomas, can either impact the nerves servicing the voice box and cause hoarseness, or lodge in a position close enough to the bottom of the esophagus that it creates difficulty swallowing.

-increased fatigue

This sign of carcinoma is a byproduct of several issues: energy that should be servicing healthy tissue going to feed cancer cells, reduced oxygen exchange capability in the lungs, and reduced autoimmune capacity, whether from treatments such as chemotherapy or the stress of fighting the cancer.

-bone pain

Particularly in the case of small cell lung cancers (SCLC), bone pain from metastasized cancer cells migrating to bone tissue is not uncommon. This particular type of pain can be debilitating and significantly reduce quality of life.

One of the difficulties in recognizing lung cancer signs is that the high-risk age group for this cancer is 45-70, and age where a new cough or increased fatigue might not seem out of place until it is too late.

I for one know there's a ton of lung cancer information scattered all around the web, and I know it can be somewhat depressing to go through much of it. I have compiled all that researched so it might benefit others. I put many months of research into a useful guide. There's no charge of course and I think you'll appreciate the simplicity of it. Its at MyLungCancerGuide.com. While you are there, you'll find this article about lung cancer signs and many other very straight forward, helpful articles.

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