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About 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 preventive care or treatment, turn to Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center in Lakewood, New Jersey. Experienced radiation oncologists Michael Marchese, MD, 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.
I’ve never smoked. Could I still have 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.
Previous radiation therapy
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 medical history of lung cancer
Be extra vigilant for signs of lung cancer if you have a sibling, parent, or child with the disease.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
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 attend regular health screenings.
How is lung cancer detected?
Getting a diagnosis usually begins with an imaging test of your lungs. Your provider may recommend an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) if you have worrisome symptoms. Other tests include looking at sputum (lung mucus) under a microscope.
Biopsies can determine if you have cancer and, if so, what stage it’s in. Stage 1 lung cancer is in the earliest stage and contained to the lung, while stage 4 has spread significantly.
What treatments are available for lung cancer?
If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, it’s vital to begin treatment as soon as possible. Your personalized treatment plan may include surgery or radiation therapies.
Image-guided, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IG-IMRT) reduces your heart and lungs’ exposure to radiation, protecting your healthy tissues.
The Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center team keeps you informed and comfortable, letting you know your options and listening to your concerns.
For lung cancer care that truly considers your individual needs, call Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center or book an appointment online today.