Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, making up about 85% of all lung cancer cases. It begins in the cells that line the airways of your lungs. The term 'non-small cell' describes how the cancer cells appear under a microscope, which helps doctors differentiate it from other types of lung cancer and guides treatment decisions. NSCLC encompasses several subtypes, such as adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The primary cause and biggest risk factor for NSCLC is smoking, including exposure to secondhand smoke. However, not everyone who develops NSCLC is a smoker. Other risk factors include exposure to substances like radon gas, asbestos, certain industrial chemicals, air pollution, a family history of lung cancer, or previous radiation therapy to the chest. If NSCLC is suspected, a variety of lab tests and imaging scans are crucial. These tests are essential for confirming the diagnosis, determining the exact type of NSCLC, and understanding if and how far the cancer has spread (this is called staging). Importantly, your lab results, especially from tumor biopsies, allow doctors to perform molecular testing. This testing looks for specific genetic changes or 'biomarkers' within the cancer cells (like EGFR, ALK, or PD-L1). Identifying these biomarkers is vital because it helps your medical team select the most effective, personalized treatment plan, which might include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. These tests also help monitor your response to treatment.