Lung Cancer

Hundreds of thousands of new lung cancer cases are diagnosed yearly, and one in five cancer deaths is due to this serious disease. "For outstanding radiation treatment of lung cancer turn to Shore PointRadiation Oncology Center in Lakewood, New Jersey. Experienced radiation oncologists Michael Marchese, MD, FACRO and Hemangini Shah, DO, FACRO, lead a skilled team that utilizes state-of-the-art technology to treat lung cancer effectively. Call the office or book your appointment online today to learn more and schedule your consultation.

What are the risk factors for lung cancer?

While smoking is the greatest risk factor for lung cancer, there are others, such as:

Exposure to secondhand smoke

Being around smokers can increase your risk of lung cancer.

If you have undergone radiation therapy to your chest for another type of cancer, your risk of lung cancer is higher.

Exposure to radon or cancer-causing substances

Exposure in the workplace to carcinogens like asbestos or arsenic or buildup of radon gas increases your risk.

Family history of lung cancer can increase your chances of developing lung cancer.

Be extra vigilant for signs of lung cancer if you have a sibling, parent, or child with the disease.

Symptoms of lung cancer can include:

If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to the team of experts at Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center:

• Wheezing
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• A new, persistent cough
• Coughing up any amount of blood
• Hoarseness

If lung cancer spreads into other parts of the body, you may experience face or neck swelling, unintentional weight loss, appetite loss, bone pain, or headaches. 

In its early stages, lung cancer doesn’t usually cause symptoms, so it’s important to practice a healthy lifestyle and get regular health screenings.

How is lung cancer detected?

Getting a diagnosis usually begins with an imaging test of your lungs.  Your provider may initially recommend achest x-ray. CT scans are usually the next step to get a more detailed view of the lung, including any lung tumor. If a suspicious area is seen a PET/CT scan may be ordered that can determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant. If there is suspicion for malignancy a needle biopsy by CT guidance or by bronchoscopy is performed if it can be done safely.

Biopsy can conclusively determine if the cancer is malignant, and what type of lung cancer you have. A PET/CT scan is usually done to determine the stage.

What treatments are available for lung cancer?

If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, it’s vital to begin treatment as soon as possible. Treatment of lung cancer will vary by the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient's health condition. For Stage 1, non-small cell lung cancer, surgical removal is usually recommended if the patient can tolerate it. If the patient has COPD, emphysema or otherwise cannot tolerate removal of aportion of the lung then stereotactic radiation therapy is often a good alternative with a high success rate. For higher stages that have not spread, radiation therapy can be used after surger yor can be used with chemotherapy to eliminate the cancer without surgery. Surgery is usually not used for small cell lung carcinoma, because it often spreads. It is treated with chemothera py and radiation therapy. If the cancer has spread to other areas, radiation therapy is often used to treat metastatic sites with either IG/IMRT or stereotactic radiation.

The team at Shore Point will utilize image guided-intensity modulated radiation or stereotactic radiation therapy to deliver the most precise radiation to the targeted areas while minimizing exposure of surrounding healthy tissues. We have a lot of experience treating all types of lung cancer. 

The radiation oncologist will take the time to discuss all treatment options with you. He will also keep close tabs on the tumor so that adjustments to the radiation plan can be made, as the tumor shrinks. 

For experienced lung cancer care, that and truly considers your individual needs or for a second opinion call Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center.