What are the treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer?

Scans show the tumour’s size and location and whether it has reached lymph nodes or other organs. A biopsy confirms the cancer type, while laboratory testing may identify changes that make targeted therapy suitable. Lung Lobectomy removes a lobe containing the tumour when surgery is appropriate. Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy delivers carefully focused radiation to selected tumours. Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognise cancer cells; targeted therapy acts on a specific tumour feature.

Ask whether the tumour has been tested for treatment-relevant molecular changes and how lung function affects the plan. Share smoking history, medicines and breathing symptoms. Treatment may combine surgery or focused radiation with drug treatment before or after a local procedure. Read about Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy, Lung Lobectomy, Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy.

Tell your care team promptly about worsening breathlessness, coughing blood, chest pain, persistent fever or difficulty drinking. Seek emergency care for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, collapse or sudden confusion. New symptoms during immunotherapy can reflect inflammation and should be assessed without delay.

What stage is my cancer? Has molecular testing found a treatment target? Could surgery or focused radiotherapy treat the lung tumour? What benefits and side effects should I expect from immunotherapy or targeted therapy?