Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, responsible for more deaths annually than breast, colon, and prostate cancers combined. Despite its serious prognosis, advances in early detection through low-dose CT screening and the development of targeted therapies and immunotherapy have dramatically improved outcomes for many patients. Lung cancer is broadly classified into two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for about 85% of cases, and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which is less common but grows more rapidly. NSCLC includes adenocarcinoma (the most common subtype, often found in non-smokers and in the periphery of the lung), squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Tobacco smoking remains the primary risk factor, responsible for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases. However, lung cancer also occurs in never-smokers, where it is often associated with radon gas exposure, secondhand smoke, air pollution, occupational exposure to asbestos or arsenic, and genetic mutations such as EGFR, ALK, and ROS1 rearrangements. Identifying these mutations is critical, as they predict response to targeted therapies. Early-stage lung cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why low-dose CT screening is recommended annually for current or former heavy smokers aged 50–80. When symptoms do occur — persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, or unexplained weight loss — the disease is frequently advanced. Diagnosis involves imaging, bronchoscopy, and biopsy, with molecular profiling to guide treatment. Treatment depends on stage, histology, and molecular profile. Options include surgical resection (lobectomy or pneumonectomy), stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for early-stage disease, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immune checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab. Our thoracic oncology team at Silvaris offers comprehensive multidisciplinary care, access to clinical trials, and advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques.
