What happens if lung cancer is not treated?

A lung tumour can enlarge within the lung or chest and interfere with airflow, nearby nerves or blood vessels. This may cause a persistent cough, hoarse voice, chest discomfort or shortness of breath. Cancer can also spread beyond the chest, bringing symptoms that depend on the area involved, such as pain, weakness or changes in appetite. Unexplained weight loss, cough and breathlessness have many possible causes and do not by themselves prove lung cancer.

Lung cancers differ by cell type, stage and molecular features. Genomic tumour profiling may help identify whether a targeted treatment is appropriate. Delaying assessment can allow symptoms or disease burden to increase and may limit treatment choices.

Arrange prompt review with a respiratory or oncology team if lung cancer is suspected or confirmed. The team may use scans, a tissue sample and genomic tumour profiling to guide treatment. Depending on the findings, care may include radiotherapy, drug treatment, procedures to relieve blockage, or symptom-focused support. Palliative care can be introduced at any stage to help with breathlessness, pain, fatigue and emotional strain; it does not mean that cancer treatment has stopped.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness, blue lips, chest pain, coughing up more than a small amount of blood, sudden confusion or collapse. Seek prompt medical advice for rapidly worsening cough, new weakness, inability to keep fluids down or a marked change in voice. Breathing problems can worsen quickly when an airway is narrowed or infection develops.

What type and stage of lung cancer is present? Is an airway or blood vessel affected? Which tests are still needed? Would genomic tumour profiling change treatment? What is the aim of radiotherapy or other treatment? Can palliative care help now? Which breathing changes need emergency help?