Lung cancer

There are two main types of primary lung cancer which namely :

There are three main types of non-small cell lung cancer. The three types are:

Squamous cell carcinoma, which is the commonest type of lung cancer. It develops in the cells which line the airways. This type of lung cancer is often caused by smoking.

Adenocarcinoma, which develops from the cells which produce mucus (phlegm) in the lining of the airways.

Large cell carcinoma gets its name from the large, rounded cells that are seen when they are examined under the microscope. It is sometimes known as undifferentiated carcinoma.

The treatments for lung cancer vary depending on the type of cancer, but may involve chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.

Mesothelioma a less common cancer that affects the lining of the lungs is is not discussed here, but we have a separate section about this type of cancer. It often occurs in people who have been exposed to asbestos.