Lung Cancer
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Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. At SSM Health, our specialists provide comprehensive lung cancer care from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment and follow-up.
Who should get lung cancer screenings?
Lung cancer screening is recommended for people at higher risk who meet all of the following criteria:
- Are between the ages of 50 - 80
- Have no current symptoms of lung cancer
- Have a 20 pack-year smoking history
- Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years
Talk with your doctor to see if you qualify for a lung screening today.
What are my treatment options for lung cancer?
Treatment depends on your diagnosis and overall health. Your care team will recommend a personalized plan.
Surgery may be used to remove tumors from the lung and surrounding lymph nodes. Options may include:
- Lobectomy
- Wedge resection
- Pneumonectomy
- Minimally invasive (VATS) procedures
- Segmental or sleeve resection
Radiation uses high-energy X-rays to target cancer cells. It may be used alone or combined with other treatments, including after surgery or to relieve symptoms.
Treatment techniques include:
- 3D-conformal radiation therapy
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) / Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy (SABR)
- Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
- Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT)
- Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)
- Volumetric Arc Therapy (VMAT)
Your care team may recommend chemotherapy or other drug therapies as part of your treatment plan.
Additional minimally invasive procedures may include:
- Cryosurgery
- Image-guided biopsies ablation
- Laser surgery to open a blocked airway
- Navigational bronchoscopy
- PleurX catheter
What are the signs and symptoms of lung cancer?
Symptoms often appear in later stages and may include:
- Persistent cough
- Trouble breathing
- Chest discomfort
- Fatigue
- Coughing up mucus or blood
What are risk factors for lung cancer?
Smoking is the leading risk factor. Other factors include:
- Exposure to asbestos or chemicals
- Radon gas
- ESecondhand smoke
- Family history
If you’re experiencing symptoms, call your doctor and schedule a lung cancer screening.
Life after lung cancer treatment.
After treatment, your care team will recommend regular follow-up care and screening. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including diet and physical activity, can support your recovery.