What is lung cancer?
Diagram of the LungsLung cancer is a term used to describe a growth of abnormal cells inside the lung - these cells reproduce at a much quicker rate than normal cells. The abnormal cells stick together and produce a growth or fluid. Doctors call this abnormal cluster of cells a tumour. If the abnormal cells first started growing in the lung, it is called a primary lung tumour. If the abnormal lung cells break off and travel in the blood or lymphatic circulation, they may start to grow in other areas of the body, for example bones. This new growth is called a secondary tumour or metastasis.
Is there a cure for lung cancer?
Yes, it is possible to be cured of lung cancer, but it is important to realise that there are many different types of lung cancer. Your treatment and chance of cure will depend on the following:
Where in the lung the tumour is growing.
The type of abnormal cells that form the tumour.
If the cancer has spread to any other areas of the body.
Physical and emotional fitness.
Discuss with your doctor which treatment will work best for you. Lung cancer treatments are developing all the time, although there is still scope for improvement. It is a common misunderstanding that surgery is the only effective treatment for lung cancer. This is definitely not the case and great care will be given to choosing the right treatment for you. Do ask why your doctors may have chosen one type of treatment over another. It is important that you and your family understand and are happy with the treatment being offered.
How do I find out more?
You and your family might want to find out more about lung cancer and the most effective treatments for it. However, please be very careful which sources you believe, as there is a lot of inaccurate or misleading information on the Internet and in general media circulation. Recommended websites and support organisations are on the Useful Links page.
Are there rules and regulations for the treatment of lung cancer?
Yes, within the NHS there are National Clinical Guidelines for the treatment of lung cancer. However Health Authorities/clinicians have budgets or personal preferences which may dictate to some extent what is actually available within your area.
The Scottish Clinical Guideline for the Management of Lung Cancer is produced by a government funded organisation called the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). To obtain a copy of this guideline free of charge telephone them on: 0131 718 5090.
The Clinical Guideline for England and Wales is called The Diagnosis and Treatment of Lung Cancer, and is produced by National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE). To obtain a patient version free of charge telephone the Department of Health Publications Order Line on: 0870 1555 455 and quote reference number NO826.
Both of the above publications are very helpful in detailing the management of lung cancer. A patient information booklet is also available for both guidelines.