Lung Cancer Therapy

by Contributing Writer

Overview

Lung cancer is one of the leading killers in the United States. Smoking is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer. Estimations show that 219,440 men and women will die of lung cancer in 2009. Several treatment options are available, and the method that is best for each patient is dependent upon the patient's age, overall health and the severity of the cancer.
About

Lung cancer is one of the most deadly cancers in the United States. It is also one of the most preventable types of cancers, and 90 percent of lung cancer cases are due primarily to smoking. Several therapy options are available in treating lung cancer.

Treatments

Surgery is often performed to remove the cancerous tissue. Undergoing surgery increases risk of bleeding and infection. A patient may experience pain and shortness of breath surgery. Depending on the severity of the cancer, there are different types of surgery that can be performed. Wedge resection, the removal of small sections of the infected lung; lobectomy, the removal of an entire lobe of a lung; and pneumonectomy, the removal of an entire lung.
Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancerous cells. Chemo drugs can be taken orally or administered through an IV. The drugs are given over a period of weeks or months, depending on the cancer and the health care provider.
Radiation

Radiation uses powerful beams or X-rays to kill cancerous cells. Radiation is typically combined with another form of treatment to allow for better results. It can be administered through catheters or external beams.
Prevention

The easiest way to avoid lung cancer is to not smoke. If you are a smoker, quit and it will greatly reduce your risk. Avoiding secondhand smoke is also a way to decrease the probability of getting lung cancer. Regular exercise and a healthy diet will help you maintain good health.