You’ve heard of lung cancer. But what is it exactly? It’s the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs. They take over nearby tissue and form tumors.

Lung cancer can start anywhere in the lungs. It can harm any part of your respiratory system. 

What are the main types of lung cancer?

There are two main types:

1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
2. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

NSCLC is the most common type. But SCLC can grow quicker. It’s also more likely to spread than NSCLC.

Can anyone get lung cancer? Yes. Anyone can get lung cancer. While most lung cancer is caused by smoking, not all are. You can get lung cancer if you have been exposed to harmful substances. While some lung cancers can’t be prevented, you can lower your risk by not smoking if you do. 

Talk to your doctor if you are ready to quit smoking. They can give you information and support that can help you live a smoke-free life.

Who should get screened for lung cancer? The Centers for Disease Control recommend the following groups of people to get  a yearly low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan to:

• Individuals that have a 20 pack-year or a smoking history. 
• Individuals who smoke or have quit within the last 15 years.
• Adults aged 50 to 80 years old.

What is a pack-year? A pack-year measures how many cigarettes a person has smoked per day for one year. A person who smokes one pack a day for the last 20 years, or two packs a day for the last 10 years, can have a 20-year pack history.

Lung cancer screenings can help spot lung cancer. They improve your chances of survival and recovery. Talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening if you are at risk of lung cancer. Learn more about lung cancer and early detection, here.  


Sources: 

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/screening.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/lungcancer/index.htm#:~:text=A%20pack%2Dyear%20is%20smoking,screening%20is%20not%20without%20risks