Cancer
Treating Non-Small Lung Cancer
In the U.S., studies have shown that lung cancer is among one of the most common cancers in both men and women. Generally, lung cancer starts when the cells of the lungs become unusual and begin to develop outside of abnormal control. Non small lung cancer (NSCLC) causes accounts for just about 85% of all lung cancer diagnoses. NSCLC is any type of epithelial lung cancer, other than small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer. There are several subtypes of NSCLC, such as adenocarcinomas. Adenocarcinoma account for about 50% of all lung cancer diagnosis. The other two subtypes which make up a majority of the additional 50% of lung cancers are squamous cell (epidermoid) carcinomas and large cell (undifferentiated) carcinomas, which are similar to small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Adenosquamous carcinomas and sarcomatoid carcinomas are not as common. Certain risk factors, both preventative and not unpreventable, can circumvent a person’s chance of getting non-small cell lung cancer. Smoking is a high-risk factor that can be prevented with the cessation of smoking. However, circumstances such as genetics and family history cannot be changed, but are known risk factors. Preventative check-ups with a geneticist, oncologist, or specialized pulmonologist can help monitor and treat for risk factors that may develop.
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