Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer is categorised into different stages based on the size of the tumour, the extent of the tumour with respect to the surrounding tissues, and whether it spreads to the lymph nodes or not. Each stage is a combination of the size and spread of the tumour which can fall into that category. In general, different stages of lung cancer include - 

• Stage 0 - Cancer is in the top lining of the lung or bronchus. It hasn’t spread to other parts of the lung or outside of the lung
• Stage I - Cancer has not spread outside the lung
• Stage II - There’s more than one tumour whose size is greater than Stage I and has spread to the lymph nodes inside the lung. There’s more than one tumour in the same lobe of the lung
• Stage III - There are multiple tumours in the different lobes of the same lung. Additionally, the size of a tumour is larger than the stage II tumour
• Stage IV - Cancer has spread to the other lung, the fluid around the lung and heart and possibly distant organs

The symptoms of lung cancer can vary, depending on the size and location of the tumour. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Coughing up blood
• Hoarseness
• Bone pain

The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking. People who smoke or who have a history of smoking are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Additionally, patients with high exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, radon, and other chemicals can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer. 

Lung cancer can also progress as a result of different risk factors like a history of radiation treatments to the chest (breast cancer or lymphoma) or having a family history of lung cancer. Call us to book an appointment with some of our specialists and determine the cause of lung cancer.

Consult a doctor if the symptoms of lung cancer persist or do not improve with time. Lung cancer can cause a number of symptoms which can increase the risk of complications. Call us to book an appointment with our leading experts for an early diagnosis to ensure an effective treatment.

A lung cancer diagnosis is a combination of physical examination and analysing of your symptoms and medical history reports. Furthermore, to confirm lung cancer, the doctor may recommend the following tests - 

• Imaging tests such as chest X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans
• Blood tests to check the working of other parts of the body
• Sputum cytology to check for cancer cells under the microscope
• Molecular testing for gene mutation
• A biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue from the lung for examination under a microscope. A biopsy can be done in several ways - 
  1. Needle biopsy
  2. Bronchoscopy, thoracoscopy or video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)
  3. Thoracentesis
  4. Endobronchial ultrasound or endoscopic oesophagal ultrasound
  5. Mediastinoscopy or mediastinotomy

Lung cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall medical health, and the patient's preferences. Common treatments options for lung cancer include - 

• Surgery to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue
• Radiofrequency ablation which uses high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy cancer cells
• Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells
• Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells
• Targeted drug therapy, which targets specific genetic mutations that drive the growth of cancer cells
• Palliative care which includes therapies to reduce or remove tumours that obstruct the airways and remove fluid from the lungs and prevent it from recurring
• Immunotherapy, which uses the body's immune system to fight cancer

The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI) is one of the largest multispecialty hospitals in Kolkata. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, revolutionising the healthcare industry for the best surgical outcomes. 

In addition, CMRI has several eminent specialists, doctors and healthcare providers of national and international reputations for comprehensive and personalised treatment. CMRI provides patient-centric care and empathy from internationally trained nurses to ensure holistic care for patients seeking treatment for lung cancer. Here are a few advantages of choosing CMRI for lung cancer treatment- 

• Highly qualified and experienced doctors
• 440-bed capacity along with cutting-edge technology and the latest medical equipment
• Hygienic and patient-friendly infrastructure
• Thorough screening and diagnosis
• Transparent Pricing Structure for cost-effective treatment
• Patient-centric, high-quality care for a high success rate
• Pain management and palliative care
• Complete and coordinated care for patients with all types of cancers.