If you’re looking for facts about lung cancer, keep reading for the answers to some frequently asked questions.Is there more than one type of lung cancer?

There are two types of lung cancer - non-small cell and small cell lung cancer. The two types are distinguishable because of how the cancer cells expand, grow and spread throughout the body.

There are three types of non-small cell lung cancer (the most common form of lung cancer). They are adenocarcinoma, squamus cell carcinoma, and large-cell carcinoma. Though rarer, small cell lung cancer occurs in approximately a quarter of all people diagnosed with lung cancer.

Is lung cancer preventable?

There are three ways to prevent lung cancer - quit smoking, avoid second-hand smoke and stay away from air-borne carcinogens at work. If you’re concerned about your risk of developing lung cancer, avoiding tobacco smoke is typically your best defense.

What are the major causes of lung cancer?

The short answer - smoking. Tobacco smoke is full of carcinogens, making it the major cause in almost all cases of lung cancer. While exposure to air-borne carcinogens like radon or asbestos can also lead to lung cancer, tobacco smoke is, by far, the primary cause.

How is lung cancer detected?

Most cases of lung cancer caught during the early stages of the disease are found accidentally in chest X-rays. Unfortunately, symptoms of the disease typically aren’t exhibited until the later stages.

Before a final diagnosis is made, most doctors must perform a biopsy. A biopsy is where a small tissue sample is taken from the lung and tested for the presence of cancer cells.

Does lung cancer have any symptoms?

Most lung cancer symptoms don’t appear until after the disease has reached the later stages. That said, the symptoms include constant coughing or wheezing, loss of appetite, chest pains, upper abdomen pains, bronchitis or pneumonia, blood being coughed up, general fatigue, a persistent hoarse voice and a dry, sore throat.

How does a doctor treat or cure lung cancer?

Lung cancer can be treated, but the treatments will depend on how far advanced the disease has progressed, the patient’s strength and the type of lung cancer. Lung cancer is typically treated with one of - or a combination of - chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.

Is mesothelioma a type of lung cancer?

Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer, but it’s very rare. The disease is caused by exposure to asbestos. Essentially, the asbestos fibers attack the lung lining, causing the formation of tumors.

Whose more at risk - men or women?

Female smokers are twice as likely to develop lung cancer than male smokers.

I’ve smoked my entire life, so can quitting now really make a difference?

Yes, it can! Every year a person goes without smoking, their chances of contracting lung cancer are significantly reduced. Out of all the facts about lung cancer, this is the most critical. Remember, whether you’re 18 or 80, quitting can help you prevent lung cancer.