The two main types of lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer is the broader group and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large-cell patterns. Small cell lung cancer is made of smaller cells with different growth and spread behaviour. The name of the group comes from laboratory examination of cells, not from the size of a person's symptoms.

Doctors also consider where the tumour is, whether it has spread, the person's health and features found in the tumour. Genomic tumour profiling may identify changes that help match some non-small cell cancers with targeted treatment. A stage assessment can include scans and other tests.

Ask which type and subtype the pathology report shows and whether enough tissue is available for additional testing. Your team may discuss surgery such as lung lobectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy or a targeted medicine, depending on the cancer's features and extent. Supportive and palliative care can be added at any stage to relieve symptoms and support daily life.

Keep a record of breathlessness, cough, chest pain, fatigue and voice changes. New or worsening symptoms should be shared with the oncology team because they may need assessment or symptom treatment.

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, coughing up a large amount of blood, sudden chest pain, fainting, new confusion, a seizure or sudden weakness. Contact your cancer team quickly for fever during treatment, rapidly worsening breathlessness or a new persistent hoarse voice.

Ask which lung cancer group and subtype you have, what the stage means, whether genomic profiling is suitable, which treatment goals apply, and how symptoms and side effects will be managed.