Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a kind of cancer that forms in the tissues of the lung. It usually affects people with a history of smoking but can also develop in patients who've never smoked. Patients may benefit from a number of therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation, depending on when NSCLC is detected.  

At Mercy, we have a well-established lung cancer treatment program with above-average screening rates. By using low-dose CT scans, we're able to catch cancer at an earlier stage, which can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Why Choose Mercy for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Care?

When it comes to lung cancer treatment, people choose Mercy for a variety of reasons, including:

• Our commitment to advanced technology such as next-generation sequencing, a process that identifies genetic changes to DNA which can drive cancer growth
• Targeted therapies and interventions that lead to better outcomes and improved survivorship
• Advanced diagnostic tools that improve the accuracy of staging and biopsies, such as the robotic bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)
• Our multispecialty tumor board where doctors from various disciplines review cases and treatment options to ensure the highest-quality care

How Does Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Differ From Small Cell?

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer, making up about 85% of cases. It grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer and includes subtypes like adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Mercy offers advanced testing options to patients to identify specific mutations for targeted treatment. 

NSCLC Symptoms and Early Detection

Non-small cell lung cancer symptoms often appear late, once the disease has taken hold. Common symptoms may include:

• Coughing
• Chest pain
• Weight loss
• Loss of voice

Mercy recommends annual low-dose CT scans for high-risk patients, such as smokers over the age of 50. These scans can detect non-small cell lung cancer earlier and improve your chances of survival. 

Living with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Your lung health is our top priority. From diagnosis to recovery, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Stay connected with your care team by downloading our MyMercy app.