About Lung Cancers

Non-Small Cell

Small Cell

Tumors That Are Less Common

Causes & Risk Factors

Diagnosis & Staging

Know the Symptoms

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According to the American Cancer Society, about 75% to 90% of lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancer. These tumors, which arise from epithelial cells, tend to grow more slowly than small cell lung cancers.

There are three main types on non-small cell lung cancer, each with a different kind of cells:

• Adenocarcinoma
  Usually found in the outer region of the lung, this type accounts for about 40% of lung cancers.  People with one type of adenocarcinoma – bronchioloalveolar carcinoma – tend to have a better outcome.
• Squamous cell carcinoma
  Often linked to a history of smoking, these tumors account for about 25% to 30% of all lung cancers and tend to be found in the middle of the lungs.
• Large-cell (undifferentiated) carcinoma
  With the ability to grow and spread quickly, this type of lung cancer can be more difficult to treat effectively.  It accounts for about 10% to 15% of lung cancers.

Treatment choices for non–small cell lung cancer

The choice of treatment and the long-term outcome (prognosis) for people who have non–small cell lung cancer depends on the stage of the cancer. Your doctor will determine the stage by looking at the size and location of the original tumor (T for tumor), the involvement of lymph nodes near the tumor (N for node), and whether the cancer has spread to another place in the body (M for metastasis). Your age, overall health, and quality of life must also be considered. Research studies are ongoing to determine the best treatment choices or combination of treatments that increase survival rates without affecting your quality of life.

There are many combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy used to treat lung cancer. Treatment options and combinations are always being studied.

People who are not cured with standard treatments—or who have more side effects than desired—may want to participate in clinical trials. Clinical trials are designed to find better ways to treat cancer patients and are based on the most up-to-date information.

Learn More

 Read about General Information, Staging and Treatment Options for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer from the National Cancer Institute