Lung Cancer Facts from a Leading Hospital for Cancer Care

We don’t just treat cancer—we empower our patients to live their best lives. That’s why we’ve compiled some research on important facts about lung cancer. This information can equip you to take an active role in your care.

• There are three general types of lung cancer: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is the most common and includes squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), makes up about 10 to 15 percent of lung cancers, and is also known as oat cell cancer. Lung carcinoid tumors or lung carcinoids are rare, slow-growing tumors that are comprised of neuroendocrine cells.
• Most lung cancers are preventable because they are linked to smoking or secondhand smoke exposure, according to the American Cancer Society. Less often, they are due to radon exposure or other environmental factors. Sometimes, people get lung cancer without any known risk factors; the ACS is not sure if those types can be prevented.
• Other risk factors for lung cancer other than smoking include exposure to asbestos, uranium, arsenic, beryllium, coal products, cadmium, silica, vinyl chloride, mustard gas, nickel compounds, chromium compounds, chloromethyl ethers, and diesel fuel exhaust.