CONDITIONS
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death worldwide, and in 85 % of cases it is linked to smoking. When diagnosed at an early stage, survival rises dramatically, and new treatments increasingly turn the disease into a chronic condition with a good quality of life.
The two types of the disease
Non-small cell (NSCLC), 80 %
The most common type. It develops more slowly and is treated, depending on the stage, with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy.
Small cell (SCLC), 20 %
It grows quickly and has often spread by the time of diagnosis. It is treated mainly with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, combined with immunotherapy.
Risk factors
Smoking is the most important factor, and it includes passive exposure, that is, many hours in enclosed spaces where others smoke.
- Smoking active or passive, in 85 % of cases
- Pollutants and radiation air pollution, asbestos, toxic substances, ionising radiation
- Family history lung cancer in close relatives
- Age more common in people over 55
Symptoms
The disease often goes unnoticed until it has progressed. A persistent cough, unexplained weight loss or back pain do not always prompt the patient to act. Most early cases are found by chance, while low-dose CT screening in high-risk people can reveal the lesion at the start and allow curative treatment.
Common symptoms
- A cough that does not go away, or coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Weight loss without an obvious cause
- Fatigue and general weakness
- Fever and recurrent respiratory infections
Signs of advanced disease
They often indicate metastatic disease and need prompt assessment.
- Loss of appetite
- Bone pain
- Hoarseness
- Severe shortness of breath
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the type, the stage and the patient’s general condition. Innovative drugs are now given at the early stages too, before surgery or as maintenance after curative treatment. In Greece patients gain access to them through EOPYY or by taking part in clinical trials.
| Treatment | When it is used | Side effects |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery | Non-small cell cancer confined to the lung. Removal of the tumour or part of the lung. It can offer a complete cure at the early stages. | Pain, reduced breathing capacity, especially after extensive resection. |
| Chemotherapy | After surgery or at advanced stages. Drugs that circulate in the blood and destroy cancer cells throughout the body. | Nausea, weakness, hair loss, susceptibility to infections. |
| Radiotherapy | Main treatment for small tumours or adjuvant after surgery. Very effective in controlling the tumour and relieving symptoms. | Fatigue, skin reactions, sore throat, difficulty swallowing. |
| Immunotherapy | Boosts the immune system so that it recognises and fights cancer cells. Major progress at the advanced stages. | Tiredness, rashes, inflammation of organs. |
| Targeted therapy | Drugs against specific genetic changes of the tumour (for example EGFR, ALK). Very effective when the corresponding mutation is present. | Skin rashes, blood pressure disturbances. |
Modern technology in diagnosis and treatment
Prevention saves lives
Lung cancer is a “silent” disease, because the first symptoms are underestimated. Stopping smoking in every form, avoiding pollutants and ionising radiation, regular exercise and a healthy diet demonstrably reduce the risk. Smokers over 50 can discuss low-dose CT screening with their doctor.
Your care at the 4th Oncology Clinic
Every case is discussed at the Clinic’s tumour board, where medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists jointly design the personalised treatment plan. Lung cancer is one of the main fields of clinical and research activity of the Clinic and of Dr Helena Linardou. Our patients have access to new treatments through the Clinical Trials Centre and, where there is a family history, to genetic counselling. Meet our team or contact us for an appointment.
Book an appointment
Appointments: 210 48 09 150, 210 48 09 160
Daily 08:00 to 16:00
oncology.clinic4@gmail.com