Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It causes more deaths each year than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined.
During the early stages of lung cancer, most people have few symptoms, or none at all. Some people are at high risk because of their smoking history and age, but don’t realize until they have symptoms. When cancer is diagnosed at a later stage, it is more difficult to treat. We know the best chance of curing lung cancer is when it’s found and treated early.
A low-dose CT scan can find cancer early. The low-dose CT scan delivers the lowest possible dose of radiation while still getting a highly accurate image. The scan takes about 5 minutes to complete and does not require any dyes or contrast.
DC 37 partners with Memorial Sloan Kettering to offer MSK Direct, a program that gives you guided access to expert cancer care. We provide resources and support throughout your care experience.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers. It develops when there is abnormal growth in the lungs or the bronchi (air tubes leading to the lungs).
People who smoke usually are at greater risk for the disease. Research studies show that female smokers may be more likely to develop lung cancer than male smokers. People who have never smoked also can get lung cancer. To learn more about types of lung cancer and MSK’s approach to treating lung cancer click here.
Lung Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Many people don’t notice any signs of lung cancer. Often the first sign of the disease shows up on a test for another medical condition. There may be an abnormal spot on a chest x-ray or a CT scan.
It’s possible you may feel one or more of these symptoms:
- A new cough, or a cough that will not go away
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing up phlegm, mucus, or blood
- Fatigue (very tired)
Many other conditions can cause these symptoms. Talk with your healthcare provider to find out the cause.
You and your family can have healthier lungs if you take the time to learn about lung health. Please print or download our information about preventing lung cancer and share it with your family.
Who is eligible for lung cancer screening?
Lung Cancer Screening and Guidelines
MSK follows the screening guidelines of the US Preventive Services Task Force. We want to be sure that only the people who will be helped most by lung screenings get them.
We recommend screening if you:
- Smoke now, or quit smoking within the past 15 years
- Are between the ages of 50 and 80
- Have smoked an average of 1 pack a day for at least 20 years, or a similar amount (for example, 2 packs a day for 10 years)
To learn whether you’re eligible for a lung cancer screening, answer a few short questions here. You can schedule your screening at MSK. You can also get screened somewhere else. Please talk with your primary care doctor or insurance plan to find out where you can get a lung cancer screening.
Lung Cancer Risk Factors
The major risk factors for lung cancer are smoking or exposure to any kind of tobacco product. Nonsmokers who breathe the smoke of other people (secondhand smoke) also are at higher risk for lung cancer.
Other risk factors include exposure to asbestos or radon. These toxic substances can damage your lungs, leading to cancer.
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Tobacco Treatment Program at MSK
Even if you’ve smoked for a long time, quitting today will help lower your chances of getting diseases caused by smoking. MSK experts can help you quit smoking. Our program is open to all individuals who smoke and tobacco users.
We offer options for getting treatment that’s convenient and comfortable for you:
- Telephone
- In person
- Group
- Telemedicine visit
