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Lung cancer is a disease in which cancer cells grow in the lungs.
Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lung divide without control or order. Normally, cells divide in a regulated manner. If cells keep dividing uncontrollably when new cells are not needed, a mass of tissue forms, called a growth or tumor. The term cancer refers to malignant tumors, which can invade nearby tissues and can spread to other parts of the body. A benign tumor does not invade or spread.
Lung cancers that start in the lungs are divided into two types:
Lung cancer is caused by exposure to cancer-causing substances. Most cases are associated with tobacco use . Causative agents include:
More Americans, men and women, die of lung cancer than any other cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, about 161,840 people will die annually from this form of cancer, which is higher than those who die from colon, breast, and prostate cancer combined. This year, about 215,020 Americans will learn they have lung cancer.
What are the risk factors for lung cancer?
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
How is lung cancer diagnosed?
What are the treatments for lung cancer?
Are there screening tests for lung cancer?
How can I reduce my risk of lung cancer?
What questions should I ask my doctor?
What is it like to live with lung cancer?
Where can I get more information about lung cancer?
References:
How many people get non-small cell lung cancer? American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_1x_How_Many_People_Get_Non-small_Cell_Lung_Cancer.asp?sitearea= . Accessed October 9, 2008.
Lung cancer. American Lung Association website. Available at: http://www.lungusa.org/site/c.dvLUK9O0E/b.22542/k.CA6A/Home.htm . Accessed October 7, 2008.
Lung cancer. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/lung . Accessed October 7, 2008.
Last reviewed June 2008 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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