Lung Cancer

The causes of lung cancer are still being investigated. The fact that smoking causes 90% of lung cancer cases answers the question of what causes lung cancer. The moment the smoke is inhaled into the lungs, it begins to damage the lung tissue. The lungs have the innate ability to repair this damage, but continuous exposure to smoke makes it difficult for the lungs to repair. The damaged cells begin to multiply abnormally, raising the risk of developing lung cancer. Exposure to radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is the second biggest cause of lung cancer. Inhaling of dangerous substances for a prolonged time may cause lung cancer as well. Exposure to asbestos leads to mesothelioma – a type of lung cancer. Inherited genetic mutations clubbed with exposure to other carcinogens or smoke increases the chances of developing lung cancer. Lung cancer might sometimes develop for no apparent reason.

Types of Lung Cancer

Oncologists classify lung cancer based on appearance and size. They are broadly classified into two main types of lung cancer; they are Non-small cell lung cancers – NSCLC and Small Cell Lung Cancers – SCLC. Lung cancer treatment in India, depending on the severity and cause of lung cancer, varies. As a result, understanding the differences between the two forms of lung cancer is critical. Most lung cancer begins in the bronchi linings, they also form in the glands below the bronchi lining, generally in the outer areas of the lungs. Both types of lung cancer spread and grow in different ways.

1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Non-small cell lung cancer or NSCLC is the most predominant lung cancer. It accounts for 80% of lung cancer cases globally. It spreads and grows slowly compared to the other type of cancer. Based on the location it occurs; this type of cancer is further categorized into adenocarcinomas, large cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas. Adenocarcinoma is most commonly found near the lungs’ periphery. Squamous cell carcinoma begins on the bigger breathing tubes close to the center of the chest. Large cell carcinoma is near the periphery of the lungs; it grows rapids, and when diagnosed, it is extensive.

2. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

Small cell lung cancer, compared to the other types of lung cancer, is less common. It accounts for 15% of lung cases globally. This type of cancer spreads swiftly. Small cell carcinoma has progressed to other places of the body before the diagnosis itself. This type of cancer is fatal due to its ability to spread and grow extensively to other body parts without being discovered. Smokers get affected by this type of cancer, as it is directly related to cigarette smoking. Based on their specific cell appearance under the microscope, they are also known as oat cell carcinomas.

Lung cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to treat. The stage of cancer and the cell type is the most crucial factors to determine the survival rate. The patients who are diagnosed at the localized stage of cancer are curable. Regrettably, most patients are diagnosed when cancer has spread outside the lungs. On top of it, lungs are sensitive body organs that may not be able to endure some treatment methods. It is why lung cancers have the poorest survival rates amongst all other types of cancers. Some lung cancer treatments are used to control cancer, while others are used to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life. The average cost of lung cancer treatment in India is around INR four lakhs to INR seven lakhs. However, it entirely depends on the stage of cancer, treatment required, cities, and type of hospitals.

Some of the lung cancer treatments in India are either used independently or are combined to treat the precise stage of cancer.

1. Chemotherapy

 The drugs used during chemotherapy are either given through a catheter or injected directly into the vein. Chemotherapy along with surgery is used for the treatment of early-stage of non-small cell cancer. Chemotherapy, in conjunction with targeted therapies, is used to treat all stages of small cell cancer and advanced non-small cell cancer. Chemotherapy has some side effects for which the doctor will advise the patient on ways to cope and manage it.

2. Targeted Therapy

Target therapy uses the new class of drugs that are designed to act on the weaknesses in the cells or blood vessels. These medications can be taken orally or intravenously. This therapy is most efficient in cancers where there has been a specific change in the cell receptors or their genes.

3. Radiation therapy

The primary treatment for lung cancer is radiation therapy. It is frequently used in conjunction with chemotherapy. It is generally used to treat patients suffering from an advanced stage of cancer by providing relief from blockage of the airways and shortness of breath. Radiation therapy focuses on the cancer cells that are being treated. Some side effects of this therapy are fatigue, skin color change, loss of appetite, etc.

4. Surgery

Surgery is widely preferred to treat early-stage lung cancer. Removing the tumor and adjoining lung tissues through surgery is best when the stage of cancer is localized. The surgery is generally performed by thoracic surgeons having specific expertise to treat lung cancer. The surgeon analyzes whether the tumor should be removed or not. Because of their location or whether they have impacted neighboring essential organs, not all tumors can be removed. Surgery may not be the best option for patients having poor lung function or multiple medical problems.

MediFlam – Lung surgery Treatments & Hospitals in India

Lung cancer treatment is determined by the patient’s stage, location, type of cancer, treatment preference, and overall health. The Lung surgery treatments and hospitals in India are globally recognized, have state-of-the-art facilities, and are renowned for providing world-class medical care to all the patients. There are several cancer hospitals in major cities all over the country. They offer optimum services to both domestic and international patients. Most cancer hospitals have the latest surgical and radiation technology for cancer treatment that allows precise and safe elimination of tumor cells without any side effects.

Almost all the renowned lung cancer hospitals in India are there on the MediFlam platform,  register yourself, upload all your documents – which are safe in your account, check out the various doctors and hospitals available on the system, choose as per your preference, and select the appointment with the preferred doctor. Alternatively, if you are stuck, connect with our Mediflam team they will be happy to assist you with it.