Which treatment for lung cancer?

Surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are all used to treat lung cancer. They can each be used alone or together. Your doctor will plan the best treatment for you. NHS guidelines state that everyone diagnosed with lung cancer should be under the care of a multi-disciplinary team. This is a team of health professionals who work together to decide on how best to manage your treatment and care. There are a number of factors that will help your specialist plan your treatment

* The type of lung cancer you have

* Where the cancer is within the lung

* Your general health

* Whether the cancer has spread (the stage)

* Results of blood tests and scans

Small cell lung cancer is mostly treated with chemotherapy. Surgery is not usually suitable because this type of cancer has usually spread at the time of diagnosis. You may also have radiotherapy.

Non small cell lung cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination of these, depending on the stage when the cancer is diagnosed.

Treatment of Small-Cell Lung Cancer

There are different types of treatment for patients with small cell lung cancer.

Different types of treatment are available for patients with small cell lung cancer. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Before starting treatment, patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.

Clinical trials are taking place in many parts of the country. Information about ongoing clinical trials is available from NCI Web site. Choosing the most appropriate cancer treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and health care team.

Three types of standard treatment are used:

Surgery

Surgery may be used if the cancer is found in one lung and in nearby lymph nodes only. Because this type of lung cancer is usually found in both lungs, surgery alone is not often used. Occasionally, surgery may be used to help determine the patient’s exact type of lung cancer. During surgery, the doctor will also remove lymph nodes to see if they contain cancer. Laser therapy (the use of an intensely powerful beam of light to kill cancer cells) may be used.

Even if the doctor removes all the cancer that can be seen at the time of the operation, some patients may be given chemotherapy or radiation therapy after surgery to kill any cancer cells that are left. Treatment given after the surgery, to increase the chances of a cure, is called adjuvant therapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. Prophylactic cranial irradiation (radiation therapy to the brain to reduce the risk that cancer will spread to the brain) may also be given. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

There are different types of treatment for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

Different types of treatments are available for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Before starting treatment, patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.

Clinical trials are taking place in many parts of the country. Information about ongoing clinical trials is available from the NCI Web site. Choosing the most appropriate cancer treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and health care team.

Six types of standard treatment are used:

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a cancer treatment that uses a drug and a certain type of laser light to kill cancer cells. A drug that is not active until it is exposed to light is injected into a vein. The drug collects more in cancer cells than in normal cells. Fiberoptic tubes are then used to deliver the laser light to the cancer cells, where the drug becomes active and kills the cells. Photodynamic therapy causes little damage to healthy tissue. It is used mainly to treat tumors on or just under the skin or in the lining of internal organs.

Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting is closely monitoring a patient’s condition without giving any treatment until symptoms appear or change. This may be done in certain rare cases of non-small cell lung cancer.

New types of treatment and prevention are being tested in clinical trials. These include the following:

Chemoprevention

Chemoprevention is the use of drugs, vitamins, or other substances to reduce the risk of developing cancer or to reduce the risk cancer will recur (come back).

Biologic therapy

Biologic therapy is a treatment that uses the patient's immune system to fight cancer. Substances made by the body or made in a laboratory are used to boost, direct, or restore the body's natural defenses against cancer. This type of cancer treatment is also called biotherapy or immunotherapy.

New combinations

New combinations of treatments are being studied in clinical trials.

This summary section refers to specific treatments under study in clinical trials, but it may not mention every new treatment being studied. Information about ongoing clinical trials is available from the NCI Web site.

* Wedge resection: Surgery to remove a triangle-shaped slice of tissue. Wedge resection is used to remove a tumor and a small amount of normal tissue around it. When a slightly larger amount of tissue is taken, it is called a segmental resection.

* Lobectomy: Surgery to remove a whole lobe (section) of the lung.

* Pneumonectomy: Surgery to remove one whole lung.

* Sleeve resection: Surgery to remove part of the bronchus.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer.

Radiosurgery is a method of delivering radiation directly to the tumor with little damage to healthy tissue. It does not involve surgery and may be used to treat certain tumors in patients who cannot have surgery.

The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping the cells from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy is a cancer treatment that uses a laser beam (a narrow beam of intense light) to kill cancer cells.

Treatment by stage for small cell lung cancer

If you have early stage small cell lung cancer you are most likely to have chemotherapy and radiotherapy to the lung. It is quite common for this type of cancer to spread to the brain. So doctors often recommend that people with early small cell lung cancer have radiotherapy to the brain to try to kill any cancer cells that may have already spread there. This is called prophylactic cranial irradiation or PCI.

If you have very early stage small cell lung cancer that has not spread to any lymph nodes, you may have surgery to remove the part of the lung containing the tumour (a lobectomy) followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. But usually the cancer has already spread at the time of diagnosis and surgery is not then possible.

If you have small cell cancer that has spread to lymph nodes or other areas of the body you may have chemotherapy, radiotherapy or biological therapy treatment to relieve symptoms. If chemotherapy works well to shrink the lung tumour down and you are fairly fit you may also have radiotherapy to the brain to kill any cancer cells that may have already spread there. This is called prophylactic cranial irradiation or PCI.

Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Treatment by Stage

Limited-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer

Treatment of limited-stage small cell lung cancer may include the following:

* Combination chemotherapy and radiation therapy to the chest, with or without radiation therapy to the brain.

* Combination chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy to the brain in patients with complete response.

* Combination chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy to the chest.

* Surgery followed by chemotherapy or chemotherapy plus radiation therapy to the chest, with or without radiation therapy to the brain.

* Clinical trials of new chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation treatments.

This summary refers to specific treatments under study in clinical trials, but it may not mention every new treatment being studied. Information about ongoing clinical trials is available from NCI Web site.

Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer

Treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer may include the following:

* Chemotherapy.

* Combination chemotherapy.

* Combination chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy to the brain for patients with complete response.

* Radiation therapy to the brain, spine, bone, or other parts of the body where the cancer has spread, as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

* Clinical trials of new chemotherapy treatments.

Treatment by stage for non small cell lung cancer

Stage 1

Stage 1 non small cell lung cancer is very uncommon. You normally have surgery to remove part of the lung (a lobectomy) or all of the lung (a pneumonectomy). If you can't have an operation for other health reasons, your doctor may suggest radiotherapy instead to try to cure the cancer. Another option for small tumours if you cannot have surgery is RFA, or radio frequency ablation.

Stage 2

For stage 2 non small cell lung cancer, depending on the position of the tumour, you may be offered surgery to remove part of the lung (a lobectomy) or all of the lung (a pneumonectomy). If the cancer is completely removed, your specialist may suggest chemotherapy to try to lower the risk of the cancer coming back. This is called adjuvant chemotherapy. It is important that your doctor talks to you beforehand about the benefits and side effects of chemotherapy. If you can't have surgery, you may be offered radiotherapy to try to get rid of the cancer completely.

Stage 3

For stage 3 non small cell lung cancer you may be able to have surgery, depending on where the cancer is in the lung. You may need to have the whole lung removed (a pneumonectomy). If there are cancer cells in the middle area of the chest (the mediastinum), your doctor may suggest radiotherapy instead. The cancer may be too close to your heart to operate safely.

If your doctor spots signs of cancer in the lymph nodes on the same side of your chest as the lung cancer, they may advise you to have chemotherapy before the surgery. This is called neoadjuvant chemotherapy. If cancer cells are not found in the lymph nodes until after the surgery your doctor is likely to advise you to have chemotherapy and possibly radiotherapy after the operation.

If your doctor spots signs of cancer in the lymph nodes on the opposite side of your chest, surgery is not possible but you may have a course of chemotherapy. After the chemotherapy it might be possible to have further treatment with radiotherapy. You may also have further treatment with a biological therapy called erlotinib (Tarceva).

Stage 4

Treatment for stage 4 non small cell lung cancer aims to control the cancer for as long as possible and to shrink the tumour down to reduce symptoms. Many trials have used chemotherapy in this situation and we now know that it can improve survival time as well as relieving symptoms. A biological therapy called erlotinib (Tarceva) is sometimes used when chemotherapy is no longer working. It aims to control symptoms and try to help people live longer.

You may also have radiotherapy to control symptoms such as pain or a cough. As well as radiotherapy, other treatments can relieve a blockage and reduce symptoms if you have a tumour in one of the main airways (the left or right bronchus). These treatments include internal radiotherapy (brachytherapy), laser treatment, freezing the tumour (cryotherapy), using a rigid tube (a stent) to keep the airway open, and light therapy (photodynamic therapy - PDT). There is detailed information about treatments to relieve an airway blockage in the advanced lung cancer treatment section.

Searching for the Right Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, the next thing you should do is to discuss with your doctors the most suitable lung cancer treatment for you. There are various options available for the treatment of lung cancer, but you will need to discuss these options carefully with your doctors and family before making a decision on the treatment method. Please bear in mind that the earlier the cancer is treated, the better will be your prognosis from this deadly disease.

Surgery is obviously one of the more effective treatment

for removing the cancer from the body, however it all depends on how far along the cancer is. CT and PET scans are used to determine is the cancer can be removed through surgery, or if it is too far along and has spread to other areas making it harder to perform surgery. Blood tests and spirometry or lung function testing are also used to see if the patient can be operated on. Surgical procedures include wedge resction or partial removal of the lobe, a lobectomy or removal of one lobe, a bilobectomy or removal of two lobes, and pneumonectomy or the removal of an entire lung. A lobectomy is the most common form of surgery because it reduces the chance of the cancer returning.

Chemotherapy is also used to reduce the risk of the cancer recurring. The kind of chemotherapy used depends on the type of cancer and where it is located in the lungs. Radiotherapy is often used along with chemotherapy.

Another form of lung cancer treatment besides these two is targeted therapy. Gefitinib is one such drug that targets the tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor. This has shown to increase the chances of survival in many of the people whom have taken this drug. Erlotinib is another drug that has been shown to increase the survival rate in cancer patients. Both of these drugs have been shown to be very effective in females, Asians and non-smokers.

Becoming diagnosed with lung cancer is a very serious thing to be told. There are several ways the cancer can be treated now but it is important to know all the lung cancer treatment options that are available to you. It is best to get surgery if at all possible, but if the cancer has spread into other areas, surgery is out of the question. Then chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy can be considered. You should also explore the possibility of using other alternative cancer treatments. However, it is important for you to speak with your doctor the instance you have gotten lung cancer.

Natural Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer, the growth of malignant cells in the lungs, and is the leading cause of death from cancer in the United States for both men and women. The types of primary lung cancer (cancer that originates in the lungs) may be grouped into two categories: small-cell carcinoma and non-small-cell carcinoma. Non-small-cell carcinoma comprises several types of lung cancers and is responsible for up to 80 percent of cases. The outlook is poor for all types of lung cancer unless the cancer is detected very early and can be surgically removed. Small-cell carcinoma is the most difficult to treat as it is often diagnosed after it has spread to many organs. Despite being very responsive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, individuals with small cell carcinoma commonly relapse within a year.

Primary lung cancer can spread to essentially any organ. Where it may produce more disabling symptoms. Most cases occur between ages 45 and 75, after years of exposure to cigarette smoke or other pollutants. In many instances, the disease is preventable: over 90 percent of cases are caused by smoking. Nonsmokers have only a small risk, and those who quit smoking even after smoking for years greatly reduce their risk. The lungs are also a frequent site of secondary cancer, which has spread from elsewhere in the body. Such tumors are almost always incurable.

Prevention

Abstain from smoking; try to limit your exposure to second hand smoke and air pollution. Homes may be tested for radon using kit available in most hardware stores.

One natural lung cancer treatment is proper diet and nutrition

Genistein, antioxidant found in soybeans, may have a powerful effect on stopping the growth of lung cancer cells. Alpha carotene, beta carotene, and other carotenoids are believed by many researchers to aid in reducing and stopping the risk of lung cancer, although there is some evidence that beta carotene may be linked to a higher rate of lung cancer and mortality in smokers, former smokers, and those subjected to exposure to asbestos in their working environments.

A diet high in fruits and vegetables (including tomatoes) is associated with a greatly reduced risk of lung cancer. Shiitake mushrooms contain lentinan, which may also offer protection and cure.

Vitamins E and C and beta-carotene all work synergistically, and when taken together, the potential adverse side effects are counteracted. Selenium, lycopene, lutein, and glutathione have been associated with a reduced risk of lung cancer. Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, and the B vitamins have also been associated with a decreased risk of lung cancer.

Supplemental oxygen is highly recommended for the treatment of lung cancer. We have to explore and examine this potent and effective natural therapy combining this one with proper nutrition and diet makes it very powerful. This one should not be neglected and should be a part of your arsenal against lung cancer, the recommended natural lung cancer treatment as provided by the “one minute cure for all diseases”. We all know that this treatment has gain respect to a lot of people. Researched revealed that if you deprive a cell 35% of its required levels of oxygen for 2days, the cell will become malignant and cancerous and will be prone to different kinds of diseases such as lung cancer. Most people don't realize is that lack of oxygen is not only the cause of lung cancer but is also the cause of all most diseases. When the body is supplied with abundant amounts of oxygen, no microbes, viruses, harmful bacteria, toxins, pathogens and disease microorganisms can survive because they cannot survive in a highly ox

ygenated environment.

Lung cancer treatment: Deguelin playing essential role for lung cancer

Almost all people who suffer from lung cancer desires to have and effective lung cancer treatment, it so happens that such a treatment exists. Sad to say, because of the source of the treatment, there has been a widespread opposition and doubt. Once the nations will wake up and accept this treatment and cure, humanity will enter a new and a higher level of awareness of physical health, wellness, and prosperity.

One of the powerful lung cancer treatment is the application of oxygen therapy as provided by the cure within one minute. The cure within one minute was research by top alternative medical scientist. It wasn't long before they discovered that oxygen therapy was one of the best approaches to treat lung cancer. They discovered the true potential and efficacy of this treatment.

The healing properties and powers of oxygen therapy do not stop at lung cancer. First and foremost, they have not discovered and encountered any cancer that oxygen therapy could not treat and cure. However, they have not seen a disease and sickness that this treatment couldn't cure. This includes all types of cancer, all type of flu, including swine flu, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis, MS, pain disorders, mental disorders, such as alzheimer’s and even all STD’s. It is harder to ponder of something that this treatment cannot cure, and while there are probably a few diseases and sickness that this treatment does not work out, scientist has not found one.

Propagator’s of this research has a huge amount of support, including some top alternative doctors. To anybody that does not believe, we suggests to the doubters to apply this treatment. Anybody can do it and see it work right in front of their eyes.

Hundreds if not thousands of people are involved with oxygen therapy. And we have never seen, heard and experience of an instance where it did not work. In some severe cancer cases, oxygen therapy is not as effective because the bodies internal organs have been destroyed already by chemotherapy and radiation treatment, but even then, this lung cancer treatment – oxygen therapy can still possibly save your life and your love ones. So, start now and try it and get your copy of the cure within one minute..

Lung Cancer Treatment - Oxygen Therapy

Almost all people who suffer from lung cancer desires to have and effective lung cancer treatment, it so happens that such a treatment exists. Sad to say, because of the source of the treatment, there has been a widespread opposition and doubt. Once the nations will wake up and accept this treatment and cure, humanity will enter a new and a higher level of awareness of physical health, wellness, and prosperity.

One of the powerful lung cancer treatment is the application of oxygen therapy as provided by the cure within one minute. The cure within one minute was research by top alternative medical scientist. It wasn't long before they discovered that oxygen therapy was one of the best approaches to treat lung cancer. They discovered the true potential and efficacy of this treatment.

The healing properties and powers of oxygen therapy do not stop at lung cancer. First and foremost, they have not discovered and encountered any cancer that oxygen therapy could not treat and cure. However, they have not seen a disease and sickness that this treatment couldn't cure. This includes all types of cancer, all type of flu, including swine flu, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis, MS, pain disorders, mental disorders, such as alzheimer’s and even all STD’s. It is harder to ponder of something that this treatment cannot cure, and while there are probably a few diseases and sickness that this treatment does not work out, scientist has not found one.

Propagator’s of this research has a huge amount of support, including some top alternative doctors. To anybody that does not believe, we suggests to the doubters to apply this treatment. Anybody can do it and see it work right in front of their eyes.

Hundreds if not thousands of people are involved with oxygen therapy. And we have never seen, heard and experience of an instance where it did not work. In some severe cancer cases, oxygen therapy is not as effective because the bodies internal organs have been destroyed already by chemotherapy and radiation treatment, but even then, this lung cancer treatment – oxygen therapy can still possibly save your life and your love ones. So, start now and try it and get your copy of the cure within one minute..

Lung Cancer - Other Treatment

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external radiation therapy) or from putting materials that produce radiation (radioisotopes) through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy, also called brachytherapy). Radiation therapy is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy or both.

Radiation following surgery for stages II or III non-small cell lung cancer may reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in the chest, but long-term survival rates are not significantly improved because cancer may have already spread to other areas of the body.3

Photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses laser light and a special light-activated substance (Photofrin) to kill cancer cells. It is approved for palliative treatment to destroy tumors that block the airway but it does not cure the lung cancer. Few lung cancers are treated with this therapy. Surgery is still the standard treatment for early-stage lung cancer.

Other Treatment Choices

Oxygen therapy

Oxygen therapy may relieve your shortness of breath. It is usually used at the end stage of the disease. Some people who have pulmonary conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may use oxygen as regular therapy.

Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis is used to remove fluid from around your lungs (pleural effusion). A large amount of fluid may cause pain and shortness of breath.

Pleurodesis

Pleurodesis is used to prevent fluid buildup around your lungs. Pleurodesis is a procedure that is intended to cause inflammation of the lining around your lungs. The irritated tissue reacts by producing scar tissue, which causes the two layers of the lung lining to stick together. This removes the space where fluid can build up around your lungs. Pleurodesis is commonly used to treat fluid buildup around your lung that returns after repeated thoracentesis.

Complementary therapies

In addition to conventional medical treatment, you may wish to try complementary therapies, such as:

* Acupuncture.

* Biofeedback.

* Herbs.

* Meditation.

* Visualization.

* Vitamins and nutritional supplements.

* Yoga.

Before you try any of these therapies, discuss their possible benefits and side effects with your doctor. Let him or her know if you are already using any such therapies. For more information, see the topic Complementary Medicine.

In clinical trials, PDT appears to help relieve coughing, shortness of breath, and coughing up bloody mucus. Additional research is being done.

Herbal therapies work well with conventional lung cancer treatment

In United States, lung cancer is most “killer” cancer form. Every year is reported for an estimate 160,000 deaths in United States. There are many type of lung cancer, but mostly are categorized 2: non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. Basically non small cell lung cancer is common and, it spread and grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer.

Conventional lung cancer treatment

* Chemotherapy – generally is being used to control cancer growth

* Photodynamic therapy- medicine being used to injected into bloodstream and absorbed by cells which remains in cancer cells longer time.

* drug- tarceva, it used for treating advance non small cell lung cancer. This drug show that it delays the progress of advance lung cancer and extended lung cancer patients life.

* Surgery – another lung cancer treatment where removal of small part of lung is a segmental or removal an entire lobe of the lung. The lung is a pnemonectomy or lobectomy.

Herb remedial for lung cancer

Basically, herbs are used in combinations for lung cancer treatment. Herbal treating for lung cancer is believed to be effected complementary therapy that work friendly with other conventional therapies like surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Herb remedial for lung cancer a safe way but the cost of herbal it often causes significant financial hardship to the patient. Generally it cost about per week $50 of the herbal therapy.

Green tea generally extracts 250 to 500 mg daily, for anti lung cancer, anti oxidant and strengthens body immune system.

Red beet juice, red beet juice has been believed herbal remedies for cancer and other form of lung cancer. It also proved to be one of the most effective in lung cancer remedial. Based on Dr. Bernard Jensen and Norman Walker D.Sc Ph.D., from their research they found out that carrot, green vegetable and red beet juice strengthen body health and natural nutrient to diet.

Milk thistle seed, generally extract, 80 - 160 mg two to three times daily, mainly for body detoxification.

Olive leaf generally extracts 250 - 500 mg one to three times daily, for anti cancer and strengthen body immune effects.

Reishi mushroom general extract, 150 - 300 mg two to three times daily, for anticancer and strengthen body immune system.

Herbal therapies are able for anti lung cancer and it is to be believed of effectively in killing cancer cell; inhibiting cancer grows and strengthens body immune system, and relieving symptoms and pain. Other researcher also conducted extensive research it longer patient life. Herbal therapies work friendly in human body as easily combine multiple ingredients to form a recipe to meet individual need.

Lung Cancer - Medications

Chemotherapy uses powerful medications to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is the most effective therapy for small cell lung cancer. It can help control the growth and spread of the cancer, but it cures lung cancer in only a small number of people. Chemotherapy also may be used to treat more advanced stages (stages III and IV) of non–small cell lung cancer.

Medication Choices

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is called a systemic treatment because the medicines enter your bloodstream, travel through your body, and kill cancer cells both inside and outside the lung area. Some chemotherapy drugs are taken by mouth (orally), while others are injected into a vein (intravenous, or IV).

Extensive research and clinical trials have studied the different chemotherapy medicines used to treat lung cancer. Some medicines are used for most people with lung cancer. Some are used in combination with others to be more effective. Some may be used before surgery or after surgery. Your oncologist will discuss and recommend chemotherapy treatment specific to your condition. Several of the more common chemotherapy medicines include the following:

* Carboplatin

* Cisplatin

* Docetaxel

* Erlotinib

* Etoposide

* Gemcitabine

* Irinotecan

* Paclitaxel

* Pemetrexed

* Topotecan

* Vinorelbine

Gefitinib. This medicine is used for lung cancer but recent studies show it may not improve long-term survival for many people. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises people who are using this medicine to continue their treatment and talk with their oncologist.20

Bevacizumab is an intravenous (IV) drug that helps prevent formation of blood vessels that supply the tumor with nutrients and help the cancer grow and multiply. Studies suggest that bevacizumab used at the same time as some other forms of chemotherapy may help people with advanced lung cancer live longer. Bevacizumab is now approved to be used with the chemotherapy drugs carboplatin and paclitaxel for treating non-small cell lung cancer.21 But because bevacizumab has serious side effects, talk with your doctor about whether you should take this medicine.

Alternative Lung Cancer Treatment

How Alternative Cancer Treatment can help those living with Lung Cancer

Lung cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the lungs, part of the overall respiratory system. While doctors cannot explain why one person may develop lung cancer and someone may not, there are several factors that can lead to the development of lung cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, people who smoke tobacco are at the greatest risk for developing lung cancer because of the harmful substances that are inhaled when smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars. Individuals exposed to radon are also at risk for developing lung cancer. Radon is a radioactive gas that is found in soil and rocks, although it cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled. Sometimes radon is found undetected in residential homes. People who work in mines may be exposed to radon, increasing their risk for lung cancer development. Other substances thought to be factors in the development of lung cancer are asbestos, arsenic, nickel, soot, and tar, among others. People that have had an immediate family member diagnosed with lung cancer

are at risk, along with those who have already had a personal history of lung cancer. The risk of developing a second lung cancer is greatly increased after being diagnosed a first time.

There are several alternative cancer treatment options for people diagnosed with lung cancer. At New Hope Medical Center, the staff works diligently to create an individualized alternative cancer treatment plan that will help build the immune system and suppress the several symptoms associated with lung cancer, including shortness of breath, constant chest pain, fatigue, cough, wheezing, and frequent lung infections like pneumonia. Lung cancer can be diagnosed in several ways. First, a physical exam is performed by a doctor, where he or she checks for general signs of health, and examines the lungs for fluid and normal breathing. Second, a chest x-ray may be performed. This would show abnormal fluid or tumors in the lungs. Last, a CT scan may be performed to examine and take pictures of the lung tissue and other tissue inside the chest. The CT scan can also reveal abnormal fluid, tumors, as well as swollen lymph nodes. The only certain way to determine whether a person has lung cancer is by having a pathologi

st examine samples of cells or tissue taken from the lung. After a thorough analysis, the doctor would then be able to determine if a person had cancer, and if so, what type of cancer was present.

New Hope Medical Center offers alternative cancer treatment options for both types of lung cancer, small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer involves only 13 percent of lung cancer cases and tends to spread quickly throughout the lungs. About 87 percent of lung cancer cases involve non-small cell lung cancer, which spreads more slowly than small cell lung cancer. At New Hope Medical Center, located in Scottsdale, AZ, personalized lung cancer treatment options are available for those seeking help. The alternative cancer treatment center hires only the most experienced doctors and staff, and works diligently to ensure each patient is receiving only the best alternative cancer treatment care.

Care After Cancer Treatment

Getting active in your follow-up care after cancer treatment can make a world of difference.

When Don Ronan, a 40-year-old Connecticut salesman and father of three, found out that chemotherapy had put his Hodgkin's disease in remission, he was ecstatic. "The CT scan showed that it was gone from my pelvis, my stomach, my bone marrow. I was cancer-free," he says. "I didn't feel broken anymore."

Ronan has made the momentous crossing from cancer patient to cancer survivor. Now he enters follow-up care, a stage familiar to almost 10 million other Americans who have beaten the disease. When cancer treatment ends, a survivor still undergoes regularly scheduled medical exams and tests to check for signs that the cancer has returned or spread to another part of the body. Doctors also screen for other types of cancers and watch for side effects from cancer treatment. During this important period, patients can work with their doctors to keep an eye out for new problems, cancer experts tell WebMD.

Surviving cancer is a blessing. "But it comes at a cost," says Mary McCabe, RN, MA, director of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center's Cancer Survivorship Program, which develops medical and psychosocial services and educational programs for cancer survivors. While radiation and chemotherapy can offer a cure, they can also create side effects, such as fatigue or infertility -- or even new cancers a decade or two down the road. Through follow-up, "we want to make sure that we minimize the serious side effects that may occur," she says.

Follow-up Care Is Individualized

The period after cancer treatment is fraught with distinct stresses. "When patients finish therapy, they're exhausted physically and emotionally," McCabe says. What's more, there are no more treatments to go through; no more intensive contact with doctors; no more battle mentality. Instead, the follow-up period involves watchfulness, and a cancer survivor may feel dread before appointments or during the anniversary of a cancer diagnosis.

Ronan says that Hodgkin's disease, a cancer of the lymph system, changed his outlook on life. "I'm nervous about tomorrow," he says. He'll need follow-up appointments about every three months for the first two years, then less frequently. He'll also require follow-up scans.

Follow-Up Exams May Be Frequent

In general, survivors see their doctors for follow-up exams about every three or four months during the first two to three years after treatment, according to the National Cancer Institute. But follow-up schedules vary from person to person, depending on one's age, general health, the type of cancer, the treatment received, and other factors. "Different standard approaches depend on the intensity of treatment and the chance of recurrence," says Derek Raghavan, MD, PhD, who serves as chairman of The Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center.

Many, but not all, patients will require testing. That, too, is individualized. Common follow-up tests include: imaging procedures (such as CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasound); endoscopy (inserting a thin, lighted tube into the body to examine organs), and blood tests.

Hair loss from cancer treatment

Hair loss can be emotionally distressing. Not all chemotherapy medicines cause hair loss, and some people have only mild thinning that is noticeable only to them. Your health professional will be able to tell you whether hair loss is an expected side effect with the medicines you will receive. If you do lose hair, it will almost always grow back after the treatments are over. But it might be a different color or texture.

Hair loss can occur on all parts of the body, not just the head. Facial hair, arm and leg hair, underarm hair, and pubic hair all may be affected.

Hair loss usually doesn't occur right away. More often, it will begin falling out within a few weeks of treatment. Your hair may fall out gradually or in clumps. The hair that remains may be very dry or brittle.

During chemotherapy, your hair and scalp need special care.

* Use a mild shampoo and a soft hair brush.

* Try to air-dry your hair. If you have to use a hair dryer, use the low-heat setting.

* Have your hair cut short. A shorter style will make your hair look thicker and fuller. It also will make hair loss easier to manage if it occurs.

* Sleep on a satin pillowcase.

* Do not use brush rollers to set your hair.

* Do not dye your hair or get a permanent while you are taking chemotherapy.

* Use a sunscreen, sunblock, hat, scarf, or wig to protect your scalp from the sun.

You may feel more comfortable leaving your head uncovered. Or you may decide to wear turbans, scarves, caps, wigs, or hairpieces. You may choose to switch back and forth, depending on whether you are in public or at home with friends and family members.

Here are some tips to help you choose a wig or hairpiece:

* Shop for your wig or hairpiece before you lose a lot of hair so you can match your natural color, texture, and style. You may be able to buy a wig or hairpiece at a specialty shop just for cancer patients. Often a salesperson will come to your home to help you. You also can buy a wig or hairpiece through the American Cancer Society's catalog. Call the American Cancer Society for more information, 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345) or 1-866-228-4327 for TTY.

* You may prefer to borrow rather than buy a wig or hairpiece. If so, call your local American Cancer Society or check with the social work department at your treatment center.

* Remember that a hairpiece needed because of cancer treatment is a tax-deductible expense and may be at least partially covered by your health insurance. Be sure to check your policy, and ask your doctor to write a prescription for a "hair prosthesis."