Lung cancer happens when abnormal cells grow in the lungs and form a tumor. It is a common and serious type of cancer, but early detection can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment. While smoking is the main risk factor, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer because of family history or exposure to harmful substances. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and newer targeted medications. Regular screening can help detect lung cancer at an early stage.

What is lung cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the lungs when cells start multiplying abnormally and form a tumor. If detected early, lung cancer can often be treated successfully, and in some cases, it can be cured.

Lungs are responsible for gas exchange, allowing oxygen to enter the bloodstream and removing carbon dioxide when you exhale.

When normal cell division goes out of control and cells fail to die when they should, tumors form. This uncontrolled growth is what leads to lung cancer.

What are the main types of lung cancer?

Doctors usually divide lung cancer into two main categories:

1. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – This is the most common type, making up around 85% of all cases.
Subtypes include:
— Adenocarcinoma – Often found in the outer regions of the lungs; strongly linked to smoking but can also develop in non-smokers.
— Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Typically begins in the central chest area, in the bronchi.
— Large Cell Carcinoma – Can appear anywhere in the lung and tends to spread quickly.
— Rare forms – Such as sarcomatoid carcinoma and adenosquamous carcinoma.

2. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – Sometimes called oat cell cancer. It grows and spreads more quickly than NSCLC, but often responds well to chemotherapy and radiation; however, recurrence is common.

Other, less common tumors include carcinoid tumors, lymphomas, and benign growths. Cancers that start in other parts of the body can also spread to the lungs, but these are not considered primary lung cancer.

What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

• Persistent cough (especially if it doesn’t go away)
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood
• Chest or shoulder pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Frequent lung infections (pneumonia, bronchitis)
• Hoarseness of voice
• Headaches, fatigue, bone pain

What causes lung cancer?

The biggest risk factor is smoking, but it is not the only one.

Causes include:

Smoking & passive smoking – Tobacco smoke contains toxic chemicals and radioactive particles that damage lung cells.

Asbestos exposure – Can cause mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the lung lining.

Radon gas – A radioactive, invisible gas that can seep into buildings.

Genetics – A family history of lung cancer increases risk.

How is lung cancer diagnosed?

Doctors may use:

• Physical exam – Checking for symptoms like wheezing or airway blockage.
• Imaging tests – CT scans, X-rays, MRI, PET scans.
• Sputum cytology – Examining mucus for cancer cells.
• Biopsies – Including bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or thoracentesis.
• Genetic testing – To check for inherited cancer risks.

What are the treatment options for lung cancer?

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s
overall health.

Options include:
Surgery – Best for early-stage NSCLC where tumors can be removed.
Radiation therapy – Uses high-energy rays to shrink or destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy – Anti-cancer drugs given orally or intravenously.
Targeted therapy – Drugs like Erlotinib, Gefitinib, and Afatinib that specifically target cancer
cell growth.

Meet the best lung cancer specialist in Dubai.
At King’s College Hospital Dubai, our lung cancer patients are cared for by Dr. James Douglas Aitchison.

Next Step

If you have any additional questions or need more information about Lung Cancers, please visit Kings Cancer Centre

LUNG CANCER SCREENING TEST