This type of cancer develops in the respiratory system, the part of the body that is responsible for breathing. The respiratory system contains the windpipe or trachea, the bronchi or smaller parts of the windpipe leading into the lungs and smaller tubes leading from these,which eventually form tiny air sacs called alveoli. Many lung cancers begin in the bronchi and will possibly be described by your doctor as carcinomas of the bronchi, or brochogenic carcinomas.
Causes of lung cancer
The main cause of lung cancer is smoking or inhaling second-handsmoke, known as passive smoking. Exposure to asbestos can lead to a form of lung cancer calledMesothelioma High levels of a naturally occurring gas called Radon may belinked to an increased risk of lung cancer Some contact with a variety of specific substances, such asuranium or nickel, can cause lung cancer but this is rare Symptoms of lung cancer
A persistent cough A chest infection that does not get better, particularly aftertreatment An increase in breathlessness Blood stained sputum A dull ache, or sharp pain, when you take a deep breath or cough Loss of weight Loss of appetiteIf you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have lung cancer.
What the GP may do
When you visit your GP he will examine you and may also arrange for a chest x-ray. There are a number of tests which your GP may undertake, including:
Tests may include:
Sputum sample that will be sent off for a test called cytology - thistest looks for different types of cells in your sputum, includingcancer cells. Bronchocopy - a special camera is placed down your windpipeand pictures are taken to look for anything abnormal Computerised tomography (CT) is a special type of x-ray thatgives very detailed pictures Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - again gives very detailedpictures but uses magnets instead of x-rays. Mediastinoscopy - this test that looks at the centre of your chestby passing a camera through the chest wall Lung Biopsy - involves taking a sample of tissue from the lungthat the doctors may be concerned about Positron Emission Tomography (PET) - this test gives clearpictures and can highlight if the disease is active Ultrasound - uses sound waves to build up a picture of the areathe doctor wants to viewIs Treatment available?
Treatment is available, but will be dependant on the type and extent of your disease. This will be discussed and decided with you, by your oncologist. It could include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or surgery.
Concerned about lung cancer?
If you have any concerns about lung cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on