Lung Cancer

From a medical perspective, we broadly divide lung cancer into two types:

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

• Most commonly seen in practice
• Tends to grow relatively slowly
• Often detected when confined to one part of the lung
• Surgery is frequently considered in the early stages

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

• Less common but more aggressive
• Rapid growth, early spread (sometimes before symptoms become obvious)
• Usually managed with chemotherapy and radiation rather than surgery

This classification is not just academic; it directly influences treatment decisions and expected outcomes.

A frequent concern patients have is “I've never smoked, so how did this happen?”

While smoking remains the leading cause (around 60-65%), several other factors are relevant, especially in urban Indian settings:

• Long-term exposure to air pollution
• Passive smoking at home or the workplace
• Occupational exposure (asbestos, industrial chemicals)
• Family history in some cases

Screening for Lung Cancer

• Long-term smokers (current or past)
• Individuals above 50 with risk exposure
• Those with persistent respiratory symptoms

A low-dose CT scan can detect nodules as small as 4-5 mm. However, screening is not for everyone; it is best decided after a clinical discussion. Consult doctors at UMC Hospitals, the best lung cancer hospital in Navi Mumbai, for further assistance.

This is where delays typically happen. Many symptoms are subtle and mistaken for routine respiratory issues.

Common but often overlooked signs:

• Persistent cough lasting more than 3-4 weeks
• Blood-streaked sputum, even a single episode
• Breathlessness during routine activity (e.g., climbing one floor)
• Dull chest pain, sometimes radiating to the shoulder blade
• Change in voice or new-onset hoarseness

Patients often try repeated medications before seeking evaluation. Do not delay seeking care; consult the best oncologist in Navi Mumbai at UMC Hospitals.

Diagnosis usually happens in stages, not all at once.

How we confirm it:

• Initial imaging: Chest X-ray, followed by a CT scan for detailed assessment
• Tissue diagnosis:
  • Bronchoscopy (for central airway lesions)
  • CT-guided biopsy (for peripheral nodules)
  • EBUS to sample lymph nodes
• Staging: PET-CT, MRI, or other scans to check spread

Treatment depends on multiple factors:

• Type of cancer (NSCLC vs SCLC)
• Size and location of the tumour
• Whether it has spread beyond the lung
• Patient’s overall health

Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Removal of tumour (wedge, segment, lobe, or entire lung in select cases)
• Chemotherapy: Often used before or after surgery
• Radiation therapy: For local control or symptom relief
• Targeted therapy: For cancers with specific genetic mutations
• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells

The specialized lung cancer treatment in Navi Mumbai at UMC Hospitals includes a combination of treatments.

Rehabilitation Care

Treatment does not end with surgery or chemotherapy. Many patients experience:

• Reduced lung capacity
• Fatigue
• Anxiety or low mood

Supportive care focuses on:

• Breathing exercises and pulmonary rehabilitation
• Nutritional support
• Gradual physical activity
• Psychological counselling when needed

Recovery is often gradual. Some patients return to near-normal function, while others adapt to a new baseline.

We are committed to providing lung cancer treatment at UMC Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, using the most advanced technology. Our approach typically involves:

• Reviewing imaging and biopsy findings with the patient and family
• Explaining the stage and realistic expectations
• Discussing all available treatment options, along with their benefits and limitations
• Coordinating between chest physicians, oncologists, surgeons, and rehabilitation teams

We often emphasize that early-stage lung cancer can be treated with curative intent. Even in advanced stages, symptom control and quality of life remain central goals.