What is Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)?
NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer. With this disease, abnormal cells form in the lung tissues and multiply. Compared to SCLC, NSCLC typically grows and spreads more slowly; however, it is often diagnosed after the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
80-85%
of lung cancer cases are non-small cell lung cancer
What are the types of NSCLC?
There are different types of NSCLC, but the three main types of NSCLC are:
Squamous cell carcinoma
- Starts in squamous cells, which are thin flat cells that line the inside of the airways
- Usually forms in the central part of the lung
- Makes up about 25% of lung cancer diagnoses
Adenocarcinoma
- Can form in cells that make mucus and other substances
- Usually develops in the outer portions of the lung
- Makes up about 40% of lung cancer diagnoses
Large cell carcinoma
- Can form in any portion of the lung
- Is more difficult to treat because it grows and spreads quickly
- Makes up about 10% of lung cancer diagnoses
Risk factors
Some risk factors for non-small cell lung cancer include the following:
Current or past tobacco use
Exposure to secondhand smoke
Exposure to radon
Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens
Previous radiation therapy for cancer
Air pollution
Family history of lung cancer
Please note that the risk factors listed above are not exhaustive.
