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Lung Cancer

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lung tissue grow abnormally and uncontrollably. This growth usually appears in the form of masses called tumors. If these tumors invade nearby tissues or spread through the lymphatic system, they can reach other parts of the body. This process is known as metastasis and significantly complicates the treatment process.

Classification and Epidemiology

Lung cancer ranks among the top three cancers worldwide in terms of both incidence and mortality. It is primarily classified into two major types: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC includes subtypes such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

The small cell type tends to grow and spread rapidly and is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage. The non-small cell type develops more slowly and is typically detected at a stage more suitable for surgical intervention.

Risk Factors

The most common cause of lung cancer is, of course, smoking. However, many other factors can increase the risk

  • Passive smoking
  • Exposure to radon gas (commonly found underground)
  • Occupational exposure to chemicals such as asbestos, arsenic, and heavy metals
  • Air pollution (especially PM2.5 particles)
  • Family history of lung cancer (genetic predisposition)
  • Long-term exposure to high levels of ozone and volatile organic compounds

Even individuals without the primary risk factor of smoking can develop the disease due to these contributing elements. Workers in risky environments should use protective masks and equipment.

Symptoms and Clinical Findings

Lung cancer usually does not present symptoms in its early stages. It is often discovered incidentally through X-rays or CT scans. Symptoms in advanced stages may include:

  • Persistent and worsening cough
  • Coughing up blood
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain—especially when breathing
  • Hoarseness
  • Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
  • Difficulty swallowing (especially in tumors near the esophagus)
  • Bone pain, headaches, or neurological symptoms
  • Fatigue and a constant feeling of tiredness

It is critical to consult a pulmonologist or oncologist promptly if these symptoms occur.

Diagnostic Process and Staging

Imaging Methods:

At Healme Clinic, the diagnostic process typically includes the following steps:

  • Chest X-ray (initial screening)
  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • High-Resolution CT (HRCT)
  • PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography)
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – especially when brain metastasis is suspected

Biopsy

  • Bronchoscopy with tissue sampling
  • Needle biopsy (percutaneous)
  • Surgical biopsy (shave or excisional biopsies)

Staging

Lung cancer is staged using the TNM system:

  • T (size and extent of the primary tumor)
  • N (lymph node involvement)
  • M (presence of metastasis)

Treatment planning is based on staging, overall patient condition, and prognosis.

Treatment Methods

Surgical Intervention

This is commonly used in early-stage NSCLC cases. Procedures such as segmentectomy, lobectomy, or pneumonectomy are performed to remove the tumor and surrounding lymph nodes. At Healme Clinic, skilled thoracic surgeons aim to preserve healthy lung tissue while achieving effective outcomes.

Radiotherapy

Used both as a primary treatment in non-surgical early-stage cases and as an adjuvant therapy. Techniques include conformal radiotherapy, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).

Chemotherapy

A systemic drug treatment used in both SCLC and advanced NSCLC. Treatment protocols often include platinum-based combinations such as cisplatin or carboplatin.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapies like PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors activate the immune system to fight cancer cells. They can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.

Targeted Therapy

For patients with specific gene mutations such as EGFR, ALK, ROS1, or BRAF, targeted drugs (e.g., osimertinib, crizotinib) are administered to treat the disease effectively.

Multidisciplinary Approach

At Healme Clinic, a multidisciplinary team including oncology, surgery, radiotherapy, medical oncology, pathology, radiology, palliative care, and rehabilitation specialists collaborates to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient.

Follow-up and Palliative Care

Follow-up assessments are conducted after treatment to monitor for recurrence. Palliative care programs are developed to improve quality of life. These include management of treatment side effects, pain, emphysema-related shortness of breath, and swallowing difficulties.

Lifestyle and Prevention

  • Quitting smoking: The most critical step in all treatments.
  • Air quality awareness: Avoiding indoor radon and harmful chemicals, reducing exposure to pollution.
  • Healthy diet: Rich in antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables; reduction of animal fats.
  • Regular exercise: At least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily.
  • Periodic screening: Low-dose CT scans are recommended for individuals at high risk.

Access to Treatment and Standards

Healme Clinic is an internationally accredited, multidisciplinary oncology center. It offers integrated services from diagnosis to rehabilitation and follow-up. Treatment protocols align with current national and international clinical guidelines (e.g., NCCN, ESGO).

While lung cancer is a serious and potentially fatal disease, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and a multidisciplinary approach can significantly improve patient survival and quality of life. Healme Clinic stands by patients in this journey, with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, experienced specialists, and personalized care plans. For any health concerns, you can consult Healme Clinic’s patient advisors and expert physicians.