What should you know about non cell lung cancer?

The group includes different tumour types, such as adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Tests on tissue help identify the type and may look for molecular changes that can guide treatment.

Staging checks the lung, nearby lymph nodes and other organs. Symptoms vary: cough, chest discomfort, breathlessness, tiredness or a hoarse voice can occur, but some people have no symptoms at first. A hoarse voice has many possible causes and does not by itself diagnose lung cancer.

For cancer found in a suitable location, surgery such as lung lobectomy may be considered. Radiotherapy can target a tumour or an area at risk. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted treatment may be used alone or in combination, depending on stage and tumour biology.

Genomic tumour profiling may identify changes relevant to targeted treatment. Palliative care can be added at any stage to relieve symptoms, support daily life and help with decisions; it does not mean that cancer treatment must stop.

Get urgent help for severe breathlessness, new confusion, weakness on one side, a seizure, chest pain, fainting, coughing up a large amount of blood or rapidly worsening symptoms. New neurological symptoms need prompt assessment because cancer can sometimes spread to the brain.

Ask which tumour type and stage you have, whether genomic profiling is appropriate, what the treatment aims are, how each option may affect breathing and daily activities, and which symptoms should trigger a same-day call.