Lung cancer treatment: reliable screening for a cure
Chest CT scan in Paris
A lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. The disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, reducing the chances of recovery. However, thanks to lung cancer screeningWith the help of the latest imaging techniques, such as low-dose CT scans, it is possible to detect the disease at an early stage and significantly improve patients' prognosis. This guide explores the different ways in which lung cancer can be detected, diagnosed and treated, emphasizing the importance of early detection in increasing the chances of curing the cancer.
What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer generally develops in the cells of the bronchi or pulmonary alveoli. It is classified into two main types non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the small-cell cancer (SCC). Le lung carcinomaThe development of cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, is frequently observed in smokers and ex-smokers. If the disease spreads, it can reach neighbouring lymph nodes and other organs through tumour metastases. In these advanced cases of cancer, the prognosis deteriorates, hence the importance of early detection. Diagnosis of lung cancer is based on clinical and radiological examinations, including CT imaging, which can visualize suspicious tumour masses or lung nodules. Patient prognosis depends largely on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better the chances of cure.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
These lung cancer symptoms may appear gradually, sometimes at an advanced stage. Common symptoms include :
- Persistent or worsening cough
- Chest pain, which may radiate to other areas
- Shortness of breath or feeling of being short of air
- Expectoration of blood
- Unexplained fatigue
- Significant weight loss
When a patient shows these signs, it's crucial to see a doctor quickly to avoid damage to lymph nodes or other organs. Early diagnosis of cancer means that the disease can be treated before it spreads uncontrollably, increasing the chances of recovery.
Screening for lung cancer: how to detect it effectively to cure it?
A lung cancer screening aims to identify the disease before symptoms appear, thereby increasing the chances of effective treatment and cure. In France, the low-dose CT scan is a recognized screening tool, enabling the detection of abnormalities in the lungs, such as pulmonary nodules, with great precision while minimizing radiation exposure. This type of imaging is recommended mainly for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers aged between 50 and 74.
Lung cancer screening scan RDV
Make an appointment for a thoracic CT scan at one of our centers:
Scanner Bachaumont 75002
Scanner Pôle Santé Bergère 75009
Scanner Blomet 75015
How can I be screened for lung cancer?
A chest ct-scan, is the most effective screening method for identifying lung tumours at an early stage. The test is particularly suitable for detecting small tumour lesions, which, if treated early, can be curable. In addition, the test can be used to monitor the evolution of nodules and differentiate between benign and malignant abnormalities, thereby reducing the risk of overdiagnosis. In oncology, this type of screening is essential for accurate and rapid diagnosis. Studies such as the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) and the European NELSON program have shown that this type of screening reduces lung cancer mortality by 20-24 % in high-risk populations. These results reinforce the importance of lung cancer screening in improving patients' prognosis, particularly in preventing recurrence. Although this test is minimally invasive, it is important to consider the possible side effects associated with radiation exposure. Furthermore, although this screening is targeted at lung cancer, similar methods are also used for other cancers, such as breast cancer, to detect abnormalities at an early stage.
How is lung cancer treated?
A treatment for lung cancer varies according to the type of cancer, the stage of the disease and the patient's general condition. The main treatment options include:
- Surgery: If cancer is detected early, surgery to remove the lung tumour may be considered. This approach is most effective when the disease is localized, and may allow complete resection of the tumor.
- Chemotherapy : Used to treat more advanced forms of cancer, chemotherapy involves administering powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth.
- Radiotherapy : Radiotherapy can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments to shrink tumors or destroy cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy : This treatment is designed to boost the body's natural defenses against tumor cells, particularly in more aggressive forms of cancer.
- Targeted therapies : Targeted therapies attack specific abnormalities in tumor cells, particularly in lung carcinomas, to block their growth.
When cancer is advanced and has already affected lymph nodes or other organs, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Lung cancer FAQs
1. Is lung cancer screening recommended for everyone?
No, lung cancer screening is recommended primarily for high-risk individuals, such as smokers or ex-smokers over 50 with a long smoking history. Screening criteria are defined to maximize the benefits of screening and avoid unnecessary examinations.
2. Can lung cancer spread to the lymph nodes?
Yes, lung cancer can spread to the lymph nodes around the lungs. This is often seen when the disease is more advanced. Tumor spread to the lymph nodes can lead to symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing.
3. What is the prognosis for lung cancer patients?
The prognosis for lung cancer depends largely on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis. If the disease is detected early, when the tumor is still localized and has not affected lymph nodes or other organs, the chances of cure are considerably improved. In more advanced stages, treatment is aimed more at improving quality of life and managing the symptoms associated with the malignant spread of the cancer.
Last update: December 22, 2024
Controlled by Dr Corinne Bordonné
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