Fighting Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

A transparent, almost invisible ribbon is worn by survivors and families affected by Lung Cancer, a.k.a. the invisible cancer. Previously called bronchogenic carcinoma, the invisible cancer, or lung cancer, this deadly disease is rarely diagnosed before the battle is half over. The monster sneaks up for an attack and lies in wait, often taking years to cultivate its stronghold within the walls of your lung and your precious lymphatic vessels or lymph nodes. It has often spread to other areas of the body and reached a frightening size before the victim says, “Hey doc, I’ve got a little cough that won’t go away,” or maybe, “Hey doc, I get really dizzy when I walk very far.” Now the doctor does a routine chest x-ray, if the patient is lucky, and discovers the severe condition that may wreck his patient’s life - if not end it.

Lung cancer affects 130,000 + Americans each year. There are two main types of Lung Cancer: Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). 80% of cases are NSCLC and 90% of these were brought on by exposure to cigarette smoke. Lung cancer is now #1 in cancer related deaths in America. Early detection and aggressive treatment are crucial to surviving this silent but deadly disease.

Small Cell Lung Cancer is the most aggressive form, but is fortunately very rare. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is more common, though just as fatal as Small Cell Lung Cancer if not detected very early. There are four main categories of NSCLC: 

1 Squamous cell carcinoma: About 25% - 30% of all lung cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. They are associated with a history of smoking and tend to be found centrally, near a bronchus. 

2 Adenocarcinoma: This type accounts for about 40% of lung cancers. It is usually found in the outer region of lung. People with one type of adenocarcinoma, known as bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (sometimes called bronchoalveolar carcinoma or bronchioalveolar carcinoma) tend to have a better outlook (prognosis) than those with other types of lung cancer.