Stage 1 lung cancer

Stage 1 lung cancer

Stage 1 lung cancer is never a fun diagnosis but there is still hope. Stage 1 means that the cancer is local, and has not spread to any other organs or the lymph nodes.The five year survival rate for those diagnosed in the first stage is 60 to 80% survival. It may not be as heartening as 100%, but the odds are still in favor of the patient and not the disease. There are variables such as whether you have small cell cancer or non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell cancer spreads more slowly and some types of cancers are easier to treat than others.

There are also a variety of factors in life expectancy that can alter the outcome. Younger patients are more likelier to do better than older patients. Your gender is also relevant. Women have a better life expectancy at every stage of lung cancer. General health is also important. How healthy you are when diagnoses can affect how you do and respond to treatment. Other health conditions you may have also factor in. Illnesses such as heart disease can significantly lower life expectancy in the first stage. Cessation of smoking for those who smoke can significantly influence survival expectancy rate as well.


Stage 1 Lung Cancer Treatment

Treatment of lung cancer depends on whether the cancer is small cell or non-small cell. With Stage 1 small cell cancer, there is Stage 1A, where the cancer is actually less than 3 centimeters. In Stage 1B it is greater than 3 cm. For both stages there are no nodes and no metastasis, or spreading of the cancer.
Surgery is the preferred choice for Stage 1. If patients have lung cancer that is unable to be operated on, radiation therapy is an option. There is also a new type of surgery called stereotactic body radiotherapy for those who are unable to do surgery. Chemotherapy is not recommended for those with stage 1A. Adjuvant chemotherapy is suggested for some patients with Stage 1B to kill any remaining cancer cells left over after surgery.
Even with surgery being a success, one out of three patients will have stage 1 lung cancer recur either in the same site or elsewhere in the body. For those diagnosed with stage 1, lung cancer is not a death sentence. Studies suggest that learning about and researching the disease helps increase the chances of beating it. Look for support groups, search online for forums, research clinical trials, and tell friends and family. With the support of loved ones and knowledge about the disease, people with stage 1 can overcome and go on to lead healthy, happy lives.