Lung cancer

The lungs are the main organs for breathing and are part of the respiratory system that includes the nose, mouth, windpipe and airways (large airways, bronchi; smaller airways, bronchioles) to each lung.¹ Lung cancer is a cancerous tumour in the tissue of one or both of the lungs.¹ Lung cancer was the 5^th most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2018, with data indicating this will remain the same for 2022.²

Primary lung cancer starts in the lungs.¹

Secondary or metastatic lung cancer can start somewhere else in the body and spread to the lungs.¹

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the covering of the lung, called the pleura. It’s almost always caused by exposure to asbestos.^1,3

Primary lung cancer is split into two groups:^1,4

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) – the most common type of lung cancer (about 85% of lung cancers) and includes:^1,4

• Adenocarcinoma – starts in the cells that make mucus in the outer part of the lungs
• Squamous cell carcinoma – mainly affects the cells that line the tubes into the lungs. It tends to grow in the centre of the lung. It’s linked to a history of smoking.
• Large cell carcinoma or undifferentiated carcinoma – where the cancer cells are not clearly one of the two subtypes above

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) – Approximately 15% of lung cancers are SCLSC. SCLC tends to start in the middle of the lungs and usually spreads more quickly than NSCLC.^1,4

Common lung cancer symptoms may include:²

• Coughing up blood
• A new or changed cough that doesn’t go away
• Chest pain and/or shoulder pain or discomfort – which might be worse when coughing or breathing deeply
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Trouble swallowing
• Hoarse voice
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Chest infection that doesn’t go away
• Tiredness or weakness

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they are persistent, it is recommended to make an appointment with your GP.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy may be offered in the early stages of cancer treatment, or after it has started to spread. There are different radiation therapy techniques which may be suitable for different cancer types at different stages.⁵

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is an approach to cancer therapy which involves the administration of medicine, usually orally or by injection, which is intended to kill cancer cells or minimise their growth and spread. Chemotherapy can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments.⁶

We understand that you may still have some unanswered questions, and we’re here to help you in any way we can. But if you are still seeking answers visit Targeting Cancer for further information about this condition or contact a staff member from a centre near you.