Per to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. While smoking is the biggest risk factor, lung cancer can also develop in people who have never smoked. The good news is that advances in screening, early detection, and treatment are helping more people live longer than ever before.
What Is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Over time, these cells can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if not detected and treated. There are two primary types of lung cancer:
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most common type, accounting for approximately 85% of lung cancer diagnoses.
- Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): A less common but more aggressive form that tends to grow and spread quickly.
The type of lung cancer plays an important role in determining treatment options and expected outcomes.
What Causes Lung Cancer?
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but it is not the only one. Risk factors include:
- Cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Radon gas
- Asbestos and other workplace carcinogens
- Air pollution
- A personal or family history of lung cancer
- Certain inherited genetic mutations
It’s important to remember that people who have never smoked can also develop lung cancer.
Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Early-stage lung cancer often causes few or no symptoms, making screening especially important for people at high risk. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- A persistent or worsening cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Frequent lung infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
If you experience persistent symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider for an evaluation.
How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing lung cancer typically begins with imaging, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan. If an abnormality is found, additional testing may include:
- Low-dose CT screening (for eligible individuals at high risk)
- PET scans
- Bronchoscopy
- Needle or surgical biopsy
- Molecular and biomarker testing to help guide personalized treatment
Once diagnosed, the cancer is staged to determine whether it is localized or has spread, helping physicians develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer
Treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Clinical trials
Many patients receive a combination of treatments tailored to their specific diagnosis.
Can Lung Cancer Be Prevented?
While not every case is preventable, several steps can significantly reduce risk:
- Avoid smoking or quit if you currently smoke.
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Test your home for radon.
- Follow workplace safety recommendations around hazardous materials.
- Maintain regular healthcare visits and discuss lung cancer screening if you meet eligibility guidelines.
For individuals at high risk, annual low-dose CT screening can detect lung cancer earlier, when treatment is often most effective.
Lung Cancer by the Numbers
According to the American Cancer Society:
- Lung cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States (excluding skin cancers).
- An estimated 229,410 new cases of lung cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2026.
- Approximately 124,990 Americans are expected to die from lung cancer in 2026, making it the leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
- Most people diagnosed with lung cancer are age 65 or older, with the average age at diagnosis around 70.
- Fortunately, lung cancer death rates have continued to decline thanks to fewer people smoking, earlier detection, and advances in treatment.
When Should You Talk to a Healthcare Provider?
If you have a persistent cough, notice changes in your breathing, or have a history of smoking or other lung cancer risk factors, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first sign of lung cancer?
Many people have no symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms appear, a persistent cough is one of the most common early signs.
Can non-smokers get lung cancer?
Yes. Although smoking is the leading risk factor, lung cancer can develop in people who have never smoked.
Is lung cancer treatable?
Yes. Treatment options have advanced significantly in recent years. When lung cancer is found early, outcomes are often much better, and many patients benefit from personalized therapies based on the biology of their cancer.
Sources
American Cancer Society. Lung Cancer Overview.
American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Lung Cancer.
