Treatment methods for lung cancer
The second-most common type of cancer affecting individuals in the country, if the test for lung cancer comes up with positive results, the treatment will depend on multiple factors. Things like the type, stage, and severity of cancer, patient’s health and medical history are considered before selecting the treatment method. Mentioned below are multiple ways in which cases of lung cancer can be treated. Treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Initial stage: Surgery is done to remove the lymph nodes. If due to any reason, surgery is ruled out, radiotherapy is carried out. Chemotherapy could be done after surgery or after radiotherapy. Locally advanced: This is stage III of cancer and can be treated by either surgery or radiotherapy, followed by chemotherapy. The decision will be based on how aggressively the cancer has spread. Advanced: Palliative radiation therapy, palliative chemotherapy, and targeted therapy can be considered to alleviate pain and improve quality of life. Treatment for small cell lung cancer (SCLC): In stages I-III of SCLC, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are offered. Surgery is normally not necessary at these stages. In stage IV, the main treatment is palliative chemotherapy. If cancer has spread to other parts of the body, palliative radiotherapy may be done.