Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Types, Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer in both men and women. It's also the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.

But there's good news, too. A decline in smoking rates means that fewer Americans get lung cancer. And doctors have made huge strides in diagnosing and treating it.

There are two main types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). About 85% of all lung cancer cases are NSCLC.


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Types of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

The name NSCLC for this group of cancers refers to how the cancer cells look under a microscope.

Small cell lung cancer cells look like oats. Doctors call lung cancer cells that don't have this distinct oat shape NSCLC as a broad umbrella category.

Different types of NSCLC may grow and spread in similar ways. Treatments and outlook may also be about the same among NSCLC types.

There are three subtypes of NSCLC:


Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Risk Factors

Doctors have found several risk factors that may increase the chance of getting lung cancer.

These include:

  • Smoking. Smoking is by far the #1 risk factor for lung cancer. People who smoke more cigarettes and people who have smoked for a long time are at higher risk. You can significantly reduce your risk of lung cancer if you quit smoking, regardless of how long you've smoked.
  • Secondhand smoke. This risk occurs when you breathe in smoke often just by being near someone else while they smoke.
  • Radon. You can't see, taste, or smell this naturally occurring gas. Radon can occur in rocks, soil, and water and then enter buildings through the foundation and collect in the air inside. People who live or work in a building with radon can eventually get lung cancer.
  • Radiation therapy to the chest. Prior radiation to the chest may increase your risk of lung cancer.
  • History of lung cancer. If you had lung cancer before, your risk of getting it again is higher, especially if you smoke. You're also at risk of lung cancer if any close relatives have had lung cancer. That includes your parents, siblings, and children.

Some workplaces may contain substances that increase lung cancer risk. This includes asbestos, arsenic, diesel fumes, silica, and chromium.

Talk to your doctor about a lung cancer screening if you have any risk factors on this list. Screening is especially crucial for people who currently smoke or did in the past.

Your doctor can also help you quit smoking.


Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Diagnosis

If your doctor thinks you may have lung cancer, they'll order various tests to confirm a firm diagnosis.

First, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask you about any symptoms. They'll ask about your health history. Be sure to tell them if any close relatives have had cancer.


Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center's care team works closely to create a complete treatment plan for your type and stage of lung cancer.

Treatments for NSCLC may include:


Contact Us About Lung Cancer Care

To learn more about lung cancer care or to make an appointment, you can: