Lung cancer

Symptoms of lung cancer

Although smoking is the top risk factor for lung cancer in adults, nonsmokers can also get lung cancer. People with a previous history of pulmonary disease related to smoking are at risk for lung cancer, as well.

Common symptoms of lung cancer include:

• Change in a chronic cough
• Coughing up blood
• New cough that won't go away
• Pain in your ribs or chest
• Unexplained weight loss

Lung cancer diagnosis

Lung cancer is most commonly found in a chest X-ray or computerized tomography (CT) scan done for another reason. We might perform additional scans, such as a positron emission tomography (PET) scan, to better evaluate any lesions we detect and to determine if the cancer has spread outside of your chest.

These imaging studies are used to determine the stage of your cancer and give our experienced team the information we need to create your treatment plan. Occasionally, procedures such as a biopsy or bronchoscopy might be necessary to provide a definitive answer about the staging.

High-risk diagnostics

You're considered high-risk if you're 55 to 77 years old and meet one of the following conditions:

• You are a current or former smoker who quit less than 15 years ago.
• You have no current symptoms of lung cancer, but do have a smoking history of at least 30 pack years (smoking one pack per day for 30 years, or two packs per day for 15 years).

If you're at high risk for lung cancer, we offer low-dose CT (LDCT) scans to help detect it in its early stages. These screenings have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer by starting treatment as soon as possible.

NSCLC treatment

Adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and carcinoid tumors are present in NSCLC. These tumors are often treated with surgery alone if you're diagnosed at an early stage.

If your cancer has progressed to stage 3, we might offer a combination of treatments, such as chemotherapy followed by surgery or chemotherapy and radiation therapy without surgery. Stage 4 NSCLC is often treated with chemotherapy alone. Sometimes, radiation is also necessary, depending on the extent of the disease and your symptoms.

SCLC treatment

SCLC, regardless of stage, is most often treated with chemotherapy and radiation. Your physician may not recommend you schedule surgery to treat your particular lung cancer.

Clinical trials

Wet offer an expansive network of clinical trials for certain cases of lung cancer. If you'd like to find out if you might qualify, our knowledgeable team can assess your condition and determine your candidacy.

About HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (303) 253-3225.