The number of people diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is on the rise. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, over 222,500 people will be diagnosed with NSCLC in 2019 alone. This surge in diagnoses has made NSCLC a hot topic in the investing world. So, if you’re thinking about investing in NSCLC stocks, here’s what you need to know.
What Are the Different Types of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer?
There are three main types of non-small cell lung cancer: squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma starts in the thin, flat cells that line the inside of the air passages in the lungs. This type of lung cancer is also called epidermoid carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. Adenocarcinoma starts in the cells that line the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs. The alveoli are where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the lungs and the blood. Adenocarcinomas may also be found in other parts of the body, such as the breast, pancreas, and colon. Large cell carcinomas can start in any type of lung cell but are most likely to begin in abnormal bronchial cells. Large cell carcinomas are also known as undifferentiated carcinomas because they don’t resemble normal cells when viewed under a microscope.
The treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer
There are two main types of non-small cell lung cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Treatment for non-small cell lung cancer usually involves surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. Surgery is the most common treatment for non-small cell lung cancer. The type of surgery depends on the stage of the cancer. For stage I and II cancers, the surgeon may remove only part of the lung. For stage III cancers, the surgeon may remove the entire lobe of the lung containing the tumor. For stage IV cancers, which have spread to other parts of the body, the surgeon may remove only a portion of the lung. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be given before or after surgery. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often given with radiation therapy.
The Side Effects of Non-Small Cell Lung
There are several side effects associated with non-small cell lung cancer, including fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, and weight loss. These side effects can be debilitating and make it difficult to carry on with everyday activities. In some cases, the side effects may be so severe that patients require hospitalization. Although there is no cure for non-small cell lung cancer, treatment options are available that can help to manage the side effects and improve the quality of life for patients.
