What should you know about stage 1B lung cancer?

Stage 1B commonly describes a lung tumour in a defined size range or with specific local features, while nearby lymph nodes and distant sites show no involvement in the staging assessment. The exact wording depends on the lung cancer type and the staging system used.

Scans, biopsy results, lymph-node assessment and breathing tests help the team choose treatment. A hoarse voice can have many causes and does not by itself establish lung cancer or its stage.

If you are fit for surgery, a lung lobectomy may be discussed to remove the lobe containing the tumour, together with lymph-node assessment. Radiotherapy can be an option when surgery is unsuitable or when a focused local treatment is preferred.

Chemotherapy may be considered after surgery for selected features. Genomic tumour profiling can identify changes that may influence additional treatment. Ask how smoking, breathing capacity, other illnesses and rehabilitation could affect recovery.

Get urgent help for severe breathlessness, blue lips, chest pain, coughing up more than a small amount of blood, fainting, or sudden confusion or weakness. Contact the cancer team about persistent worsening cough, new hoarseness, fever, or difficulty swallowing.

What type and size is my lung tumour? Were lymph nodes sampled? Am I suitable for a lobectomy or radiotherapy? Would genomic profiling change the plan? What breathing tests and rehabilitation should I complete?