There are two different types of major lung cancer, small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer is an aggressive fast growing type of cancer and commonly found in smokers. It usually starts in the breathing tubes also known as the bronchi and grows very quickly, creating large tumors and spreading throughout the body. This type of lung cancer tends to grow and spread faster than non-small cell lung cancer. About 70% of people with small cell cancer will have cancer that has already spread at the time they are diagnosed. Since this cancer grows quickly, it tends to respond well to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Unfortunately, for most people, the cancer will return at some point. Both of my grandpa’s were smokers and I lost both of them to small cell lung cancer. My mom’s dad passed away when she was fourteen and my dad’s dad passed away about 10 years ago. About 80% to 85% of lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancer. This type of lung cancer is found in current or former smokers, but it is also the most common type of lung cancer seen in non-smokers. It is more common in women than in men, and it is more likely to occur in younger people than other types of lung cancer. Constant exposure to high levels of air pollution and drinking water that has a high level of arsenic can increase your risk of lung cancer. A history of radiation therapy to the lungs can also increase risk. Working with or living near cancer-causing chemicals or materials can also increase the risk of developing this lung cancer.
...
Comments