Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, but that does not make a diagnosis any less scary. At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, our experienced oncology team provides personalized lung cancer treatment in Jacksonville, FL, offering compassionate care close to home.
Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Treatment in Jacksonville, FL
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States in both men and women. It can bring many questions. Cancer Specialists of North Florida is here to help. For more than 30 years, we’ve provided expert, patient-centered cancer care throughout Jacksonville, FL and the surrounding areas.
Signs & Symptoms
Lung cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s in an advanced stage. This is why it’s important to get screened if you’re at a higher risk. Common signs and symptoms of lung cancer include:
- New or worsening cough
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Unexplained weight loss
If you see your healthcare provider when you first notice symptoms, lung cancer may be diagnosed at an earlier stage, when treatment may be more effective.
Risk Factors
Smoking is by far the leading risk factor for lung cancer, with around 90 percent of lung cancers occurring as a result of tobacco use.
Some other common risk factors include:
- Secondhand smoke
- Exposure to harmful substances, such as radon or asbestos
- Family history
Screening & Diagnosis
With symptoms of lung cancer usually not appearing until the disease is in an advanced stage, early screening is recommended, especially for adults who are at a high risk based on their smoking history and age.
The American Cancer Society recommends yearly screening with a low-dose CT scan for people ages 50 to 80 who:
- Smoke or used to smoke and
- Have at least a 20 pack-year history of smoking. A pack-year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for 1 year.
Talk with your healthcare provider about whether lung cancer screening is appropriate for you.
Types & Stages
There are two main types of lung cancer – non-small cell and small cell. Understanding each type and its respective stages helps guide treatment decisions.
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) – Most common type of lung cancer. It includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. The general staging for NSCLC is from stage 0 through IV, advancing as the tumor grows or how far the cancer has spread.
- Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) – Less common and often grows and progresses more quickly than NSCLC. It is grouped and staged similarly to NSCLC. Treatment options and recommendations will vary based on the spread and extent of the disease.
Depending on the type and stage, your healthcare provider will develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Lung Cancer Treatment Options
At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, we take a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. Using the most advanced technology, treatment options, and clinical trials, our team offers comprehensive care for those at high-risk of lung cancer.
Lung cancer is treated in several ways, depending on the type of cancer, how far it has spread, and your overall health. Your treatment plan may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
- Clinical trials
Beyond medical treatment, we also provide access to supportive services to aid in your recovery. From nutritional support and counseling, to financial assistance, we deliver compassionate care beyond just treating the disease.
Why Choose Cancer Specialists of North Florida For Lung Cancer Treatment
Cancer Specialists of North Florida is one of the area’s leading, physician-owned oncology practices. Our experienced team has been helping patients with lung cancer treatment in Jacksonville, FL for more than 30 years. With multiple locations, access to advanced treatment options, and a dedicated team of cancer specialists, we’re here to provide the expert cancer care you need close to home.
Find The Nearest Location for Lung Cancer Treatment
Cancer Specialists of North Florida has 11 convenient locations, making it easier for you to access expert lung cancer treatment in Jacksonville, FL and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of lung cancer?
In its earliest stages, lung cancer does not always show any noticeable symptoms. Signs and symptoms typically present when the cancer is in a more advanced stage. However, a few early signs of lung cancer may include persistent coughing, chest pain, loss of appetite, and frequent lung infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
Does smoking cause lung cancer?
Yes. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. People who smoke cigarettes are 15 to 30 times more likely to get lung cancer or die from lung cancer than people who do not smoke. The good news is quitting tobacco can better your chances of a successful treatment. Our multidisciplinary team offers counseling and treatment to help patients quit smoking during cancer care.
Can nonsmokers develop lung cancer?
Yes. In the United States, about 10% to 20% of lung cancers happen in people who never smoked. Lung cancer in nonsmokers is primarily caused by environmental factors, such as secondhand smoke, cancer-causing agents in the workplace, air pollution, or family history.
Can lung cancer be cured?
Whether lung cancer can be cured depends on the type, stage, and other factors. When lung cancer is found at an earlier stage, treatment has a better chance of success. Even when lung cancer cannot be cured, treatment can help control the disease, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life. Through our multidisciplinary approach, our cancer care team will recommend a personalized team plan designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
