Lung cancer

Lung cancer is a malignant disease in which abnormal cells grow in lung tissue, most often originating in the airways or air sacs. Its major forms differ in cell type, behavior, and treatment.

Non-small-cell lung cancer: A group of lung cancers that includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. It accounts for most lung cancers and groups several distinct tumor types.
Carcinogenesis: The process by which normal cells acquire changes that allow them to become cancerous. Lung tumors emerge as airway or lung cells accumulate cancer-promoting changes.
Lung cancer screening: Testing people without symptoms to detect lung cancer early, commonly using low-dose computed tomography. Screening can find some lung cancers before symptoms or advanced spread appear.
Tobacco smoking: The inhalation of smoke produced by burning tobacco, exposing the body to nicotine and cancer-causing chemicals. It is the leading cause of lung cancer and contributes to most cases worldwide.
Cancer pain: Pain caused by a tumor, cancer treatment, or related tissue damage. Lung tumors and metastases can cause persistent pain that requires active management.
Small-cell lung cancer: An aggressive lung cancer characterized by small cells and rapid growth, strongly associated with tobacco smoking. This major subtype grows and spreads differently from non-small-cell lung cancer.
EGFR mutation: A genetic alteration in the epidermal growth factor receptor gene that can drive tumor growth. Some lung adenocarcinomas depend on altered EGFR signaling and respond to targeted drugs.
Low-dose computed tomography: An imaging technique that uses a reduced radiation dose to create detailed cross-sectional images. It is the established imaging method used for lung cancer screening in eligible people.
Secondhand smoke: Smoke inhaled involuntarily from burning tobacco products and smoke exhaled by smokers. Exposure increases lung cancer risk even among people who do not smoke.
Palliative care: Care focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life during serious illness. It can address breathlessness, pain, and emotional distress at any stage of lung cancer.

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