Lung Cancer & Immunotherapy: Changing the Outlook for Patients
Lung Cancer & Immunotherapy: Changing the Outlook for Patients
Understanding Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, affecting over 2.1 million people and accounting for nearly 1.7 million deaths annually. It remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women.
There are two primary types of lung cancer:
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – 10–15% of cases
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – 85–90% of cases
Within NSCLC, there are several subtypes:
Adenocarcinoma – Arises from mucus-producing cells (approx. 40% of lung cancers)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Originates from the flat cells lining the airways (25–30%)
Large Cell Carcinoma – Develops from the outer epithelial lining of the lungs (10–15%)
Mesothelioma – A rare cancer of the tissue lining the lungs (often linked to asbestos exposure)
The Challenge of Late Diagnosis
Unfortunately, many lung cancer cases are diagnosed at advanced stages (Stage 3B or 4). At this point, traditional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation offer limited success, often aiming to relieve symptoms rather than cure.
How Immunotherapy is Changing the Game
Immunotherapy, also known as biologic therapy, is transforming lung cancer treatment—especially in advanced cases. Unlike chemotherapy, which directly targets cancer cells, immunotherapy works by activating the body’s own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
Key benefits of immunotherapy include:
Improved Quality of Life (QOL)
Increased Survival Rates
Better Tolerance Compared to Chemotherapy
Lung Cancer Treatment Evolution
Previously, treatment options were limited to:
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation Therapy
These provided partial symptom relief and modest improvements in survival for advanced cases. But today, immunotherapy—especially as a first-line treatment or in combination with conventional methods—is significantly improving outcomes.
Conclusion: A New Era of Hope
At Max Hospital, Bathinda, specialists like Dr. Vijay Jagad follow the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment, including immunotherapy protocols that are customized to each patient.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer, don’t lose hope. Talk to your oncologist about the latest in immune-based treatment strategies. With early intervention and advanced therapies, the future for lung cancer patients is looking brighter.
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