Each inhale feels natural- until it suddenly becomes a struggle.
For those living with non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), even the simplest inhale can feel like a battle.
Accounting for almost 85% of all lung cancer cases, non small cell lung cancer is the most common type.
So, what exactly is non small cell lung cancer, and why is it the most common type of lung cancer? More importantly, how can you recognise the early signs and take action before it’s too late?
In this blog, we’ll discuss details about NSCLC, its symptoms, survival rates, and treatment for early detection and better management.
What Is Non Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)?
According to StatPearls, non small cell lung cancer is a term used for the different subtypes of cancer that behave similarly and are distinct from small cell lung cancer. The main subtypes of NSCLC include:
- Adenocarcinoma: The most common subtype, often starting in the outer parts of the lungs, in which the tumour cells secrete a mucous-like substance (mucin). It is usually detected in non-smokers or former smokers.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This cancer begins in the thin, flat cells (squamous cells) in the lung airways.
- Large cell carcinoma: This lung cancer subtype can be located anywhere in the lung. It develops more rapidly than other subtypes and is challenging to treat.
Some other similar terms that you may come across to denote NSCLC are non small cell carcinoma lung cancer, or non cell lung cancer.
To explain briefly, the key difference between the two major types of lung cancer, lung cancer small cell and non small cell, lies in the growth pattern and treatment approach.
Small-cell lung cancer spreads relatively faster and requires chemotherapy and radiation to treat, while NSCLC treatment often includes surgery, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy, depending on the stage.
Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Symptoms
Recognising the initial signs of NSCLC can aid in prompt diagnosis, early treatment, and increase the survival rates. Here are its common symptoms:
- Excessive coughing that does not get worse with time
- Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
- Difficulty in breathing or wheezing
- Feeling chest pain when trying hard to breathe
- Hoarseness or changes in voice
- Unexpected weight loss
- Constant Tiredness
- Frequent infections such as pneumonia, Bronchitis
It is worth noting that these symptoms often overlap with various other conditions and can be easily overlooked in the early stages. If these symptoms seem a bit severe or if you have a history of smoking or living/working in areas exposed to pollutants or chemicals, getting a test is advised.
Causes and Risk Factors
As per NCBI, smoking is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, linked to at least 80% of lung cancer deaths. Some other risk factors of NSCLC in non-smokers are due to exposure to the following:
- Secondhand smoking
- Asbestos, arsenic, or diesel exhaust
- Air pollution or radon gas
- Having a family history of lung cancer
- Genetic mutations such as EGFR, ALK, or KRAS
Understanding these risk factors is vital for both prevention and early detection.
Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Survival Rate
The non small cell lung cancer survival rate depends largely on the stage at diagnosis. The Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program database tracks 5-year relative survival rates for the three stages as provided below:
| SEER stage | 5-year relative survival rate |
| Localised: There is no sign that the cancer has spread outside of the lung. | 67% |
| Regional: The cancer has spread outside the lung to nearby structures or regional lymph nodes. | 40% |
| Distant: The cancer has spread to distant organs or parts of the body, such as the brain, bones, liver, or the other lung. | 12% |
| All SEER stages combined | 32% |
Treatment Options for Non Small Cell Lung Cancer
Owing to the advancements in medicine, today there are multiple non small cell lung cancer treatments available that can help extend life and improve the quality of living for people worldwide. These are recommended depending on the cancer stage, overall health, and genetic factors, as listed below:
- Surgery: This is ideal for early-stage NSCLC as it can help remove part of the lung (lobectomy) or the entire lung (pneumonectomy) to prevent the cancer from spreading.
- Radiation Therapy: These are high-energy rays that are used to target and kill cancer cells after surgery or when surgery isn’t an option.
- Chemotherapy: This involves using drugs that are administered intravenously or orally to terminate the rapidly dividing cells.
- Targeted Therapy: This approach targets and eliminates the specific gene mutations (like EGFR or ALK) and has fewer side effects than traditional chemo.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy empowers the body’s immune system to recognise and fight cancer cells.
- Palliative Care: For advanced cases, supportive treatments help manage symptoms, improve breathing, and reduce pain.
Read More: Lung Disease Symptoms: Spot the Signs Before It’s Serious
To Sum Up
Non small cell carcinoma lung cancer is a serious lung condition, but thanks to advances in early screening and modern therapies, it can be treated if prompt action is taken. This is why recognising non small cell lung cancer symptoms on time and understanding risk factors can help improve quality of life. If you or a loved one experiences persistent lung-related symptoms, consult a healthcare provider early.
