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Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. More individuals die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. In 2007, there will be more than 200 000 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed in the United States. About 6 of 10 individuals with lung cancer die within 1 year of their diagnosis. These cancers are generally categorized by cell type, such as small cell or nonosmall cell carcinomas. These categories are used for treatment decisions and determining prognosis (prospect of recovery). Currently there is no recommended screening test for lung cancer. The March 7, 2007, issue of JAMA includes an article about computed tomography (CT) screening for lung cancer.
RISK FACTORS FOR LUNG CANCER
- Smoking—about 87% of lung cancers are related to smoking. The risk increases the longer you smoke and the more cigarettes you smoke each day. Secondhand smoke is also a risk factor
- Exposure to substances such as arsenic, asbestos, radioactive dust, or radon
- Radiation exposure from work, medical, or environmental sources
- A family history of cancer
SYMPTOMS OF LUNG CANCER
Although most lung cancers do not cause symptoms until cancer has spread, you should report any of the following symptoms to your doctor. Often these symptoms are caused by something other than cancer, but if lung cancer is found, early treatment may relieve symptoms and help you live longer. The most common symptoms are
- Persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Sudden onset of wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia
- Fatigue
TESTS FOR LUNG CANCER
- Thoracentesis—a sample of fluid from around the lungs to evaluate types of cells
- Bronchoscopy—flexible camera to view the airway and take tissue samples
- Computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs to identify abnormal tissue masses
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan of the lungs to look for cancer cells
- Bone scan to determine whether the cancer has spread to the bones
TREATMENT OF LUNG CANCER
Many factors must be taken into account to determine the best treatment for an individual diagnosed with lung cancer. The specific type of cell, the location of the lung tumor, the stage of the disease with possible metastasis (spread to other parts of the body), and the general health of the individual must be considered. Various treatment plans may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and/or surgery.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
INFORM YOURSELF
To find this and previous JAMA Patient Pages, go to the Patient Page link on JAMA's Web site at http://www.jama.com. Many are available in English and Spanish. A previous Patient Page on lung cancer was published in the August 24/31, 2005, issue.
Sources: American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, Society of Thoracic Surgeons
The JAMA Patient Page is a public service of JAMA. The information and recommendations appearing on this page are appropriate in most instances, but they are not a substitute for medical diagnosis. For specific information concerning your personal medical condition, JAMA suggests that you consult your physician. This page may be photocopied noncommercially by physicians and other health care professionals to share with patients. To purchase bulk reprints, call 203/259-8724.
TOPIC: CANCER
John L. Zeller, MD, PhD, Writer;
Cassio Lynm, MA, Illustrator;
Richard M. Glass, MD, Editor
JAMA. 2007;297:1022.
RELATED ARTICLE
Computed Tomography Screening and Lung Cancer Outcomes
Peter B. Bach, James R. Jett, Ugo Pastorino, Melvyn S. Tockman, Stephen J. Swensen, and Colin B. Begg
JAMA. 2007;297(9):953-961.
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