What should you know about stage 4 breast and lung cancer?

Stage 4 means cancer has travelled to a distant part of the body. Breast and lung cancers are different diseases, and even two people with the same starting organ may have different tumour markers, symptoms and treatment needs. Genomic tumour profiling can identify changes that help guide medicine choices, particularly in some lung cancers.

Symptoms depend on where cancer is active. A hoarse voice, breathlessness, cough, pain, tiredness or appetite changes should be described to the team; none of these symptoms alone establishes the cause.

Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy or medicines selected for hormone receptors, immune markers or other tumour features. Surgery such as lung lobectomy is used only in situations where removing a lung section fits the overall plan. Radiotherapy may target a painful area or a site causing pressure. Palliative care supports symptoms, sleep, nutrition, mood and family needs alongside cancer treatment.

Keep a record of new symptoms, medicines and side effects. Tell the team if treatment affects eating, movement, breathing or daily activities so supportive changes can be considered early.

Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, coughing a large amount of blood, sudden weakness, new confusion, a seizure or chest pain that does not settle. Contact the oncology team promptly for fever, worsening pain, inability to drink or a new hoarse voice that interferes with swallowing or breathing.

Where has the cancer spread? Which tumour markers were tested? What is the aim of each treatment? How will symptoms and response be monitored? Who should I contact overnight or during a holiday?