Lung Cancer Overview
Lung cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in one or both lungs. These cells can rapidly multiply, forming tumors that disrupt the normal functioning of the lungs and, in some cases, can spread to other parts of the body.
While a significant number of lung cancer cases occur in individuals with a history of smoking, it can also affect people who have never smoke cigarettes. Risk factors include exposure to radon, asbestos, and secondhand smoke, though the cause is often unknown.
Lung cancer comes in two main types: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. These two types have distinct growth patterns and require different treatment approaches. Non-small cell lung cancer is the more common of the two. Efforts are underway to promote genomic or biomarker testing for patients to identify targetable mutations, potentially expanding their treatment options.