Lung Cancer

Advanced Oncology Care With Compassion, Expertise and Innovation

Lung cancer remains one of the most life-threatening malignancies worldwide. In India, an estimated 81,748 new cases were diagnosed in 2022, making it one of the country's most common cancers and causing over 75,000 deaths that year. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, we offer comprehensive lung cancer care through advanced diagnostics, a highly skilled oncology team, and a patient-centered approach throughout the entire treatment journey.

Understanding Lung Cancer

Lung cancer originates in the lung tissue, particularly in cells lining the airways. It develops when these cells begin uncontrolled growth and multiplication, typically due to exposure to carcinogens such as tobacco smoke, radiation, or asbestos.

Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. While initial symptoms may be subtle or absent, prompt diagnosis when symptoms appear offers the best chance for successful intervention. Our multidisciplinary team at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad combines expert diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive supportive care to guide patients through every stage of their cancer journey.

Why Early Detection Matters

Lung cancer often presents with symptoms only in advanced stages, making early detection crucial. The WHO reports that many cases are diagnosed at later stages when treatment options become more limited. Five-year survival rates for lung cancer remain lower than most other cancers, underscoring the importance of proactive screening for high-risk individuals and awareness of risk factors.

Risk Factors

Identifying risk factors enables informed health decisions and promotes appropriate screening:

• Tobacco smoking: The leading cause, accounting for approximately 85% of cases worldwide
• Second-hand smoke: Increases risk even among non-smokers
• Environmental and occupational exposures: Including asbestos, radon, diesel exhaust, heavy metals, and air pollution
• Urban air pollution: An increasing concern, particularly among non-smokers in metropolitan areas
• Previous lung disease or family history: Chronic lung conditions or family history of lung cancer elevate risk
• Age: Most cases occur in individuals over 45 years
• Radon gas exposure: This naturally occurring radioactive gas can accumulate in buildings and cause lung cancer

Important note: Not all lung cancer patients are smokers. Non-smokers can develop the disease through other risk factors, making awareness of non-smoking risk factors increasingly important.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Lung cancer symptoms often resemble less serious conditions. While many patients remain asymptomatic until advanced stages, some experience early warning signs. Consult a specialist if you experience:

• Persistent cough that doesn't resolve or changes in character
• Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) or rust-colored sputum
• Chest pain, especially with deep breathing or coughing
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or hoarseness
• Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
• Unexplained fatigue
• Recurrent respiratory infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis

If you experience these symptoms, particularly with known risk factors, consult a lung specialist or oncologist at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad promptly.

Screening and Diagnosis

Our comprehensive screening and diagnostic services support early detection and accurate staging, enabling optimal treatment planning. Services include:

• Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals
• Comprehensive physical assessment
• Advanced imaging (X-ray, CT scan, PET-CT)
• Biopsy and pathological analysis
• Molecular and genetic profiling

Screening high-risk populations significantly reduces lung cancer mortality. Following diagnosis, treatment planning considers disease stage, tumor type, and overall patient health.

Comprehensive Treatment Options

Every lung cancer case requires individualized care. Our multidisciplinary oncology team develops tailored treatment plans incorporating multiple specialties:

Thoracic (Lung) Surgery

• Minimally invasive surgery (VATS/robotic): Facilitates faster recovery with smaller incisions and reduced discomfort
• Anatomical resections: Including segmentectomy and lobectomy with lymph node mapping for accurate staging
• Complex resections and reconstruction: For advanced cases requiring chest wall involvement
• Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols: Minimize pain and accelerate postoperative recovery
• Coordinated perioperative care: Close collaboration with anesthesia and ICU teams ensures optimal monitoring

Medical Oncology

• Targeted therapies: Precision treatment based on genetic mutations (EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and others)
• Immunotherapy: Enhances the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells
• Optimized chemotherapy: Delivered in comfortable day-care settings with expert side effect management
• Precision medicine: Treatment plans adapted based on disease response and patient needs
• Comprehensive support: Including toxicity management, infection prevention, and nutritional support

Radiation Oncology

• Image-guided precision radiation: Targets tumors accurately while minimizing damage to healthy tissue
• Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): High-precision treatment delivered in fewer sessions
• Advanced planning techniques: Including 4D imaging, motion management, and breath-hold techniques
• Multidisciplinary coordination: Ensures comprehensive treatment approach

Pulmonology and Interventional Pulmonology

• Rapid assessment clinic: Quick evaluation of symptoms and imaging findings
• Advanced bronchoscopy and EBUS: Precise tissue sampling and accurate staging
• Navigational bronchoscopy: Access to difficult peripheral nodules for safer diagnosis
• Airway interventions: Including stenting and debulking procedures for symptom relief
• Pulmonary rehabilitation: Improves lung function, endurance, and breathing capacity

Radiology and Nuclear Medicine

• Low-Dose CT screening: Early cancer detection in high-risk populations
• High-resolution CT: Detailed 3D lung mapping for treatment planning
• PET-CT staging: Identifies cancer spread to guide treatment decisions
• Rapid multidisciplinary reporting: Expedites diagnosis and treatment planning
   

Pathology and Molecular Genetics

• Expert thoracic pathology: Accurate cancer classification and diagnosis
• Comprehensive genomic profiling (NGS): Identifies targetable mutations for precision therapy
• Liquid biopsy: Non-invasive testing option when tissue sampling is challenging
• Genetic counseling: Support for families with hereditary cancer risk
• Expedited results: Minimizes delays in treatment initiation

Anesthesia and Critical Care

• Lung-protective anesthesia with specialized pain management
• Expert ICU care for complex cases requiring intensive monitoring
   

Rehabilitation and Supportive Care

• Physiotherapy: Breathing exercises and mobility enhancement
• Clinical nutrition: Maintains optimal weight and energy during treatment
• Pain and symptom management: Controls cough, fatigue, and treatment-related discomfort
• Psycho-oncology counseling: Emotional support for patients and families
• Early palliative care: Focuses on quality of life throughout the treatment journey

Nursing and Care Navigation

• Dedicated nurse navigators: Coordinate appointments, tests, and treatments
• 24/7 support helpline: Ensures continuous patient assistance

Clinical Trials and Second Opinions

• Access to clinical trials: Emerging evidence-based therapies when appropriate
• Structured second-opinion service: Provides clarity and confidence in treatment decisions
   

Our Patient-Centered Care Approach

• Same-week evaluation: Rapid consultation and testing to expedite treatment
• Multidisciplinary tumor board: Comprehensive treatment plans developed by all relevant specialists
• Informed decision-making: Clear explanation of all treatment options, benefits, and potential side effects
• Dedicated care coordinator: Organizes treatment journey and reduces stress
   

Post-Treatment Care and Survivorship

Treatment completion marks a new phase in the cancer journey. Our comprehensive follow-up includes:

• Regular surveillance: Scheduled clinical visits and imaging to monitor for recurrence
• Long-term side effect management: Including breathlessness, fatigue, and treatment-related effects
• Lifestyle support: Smoking cessation assistance, nutrition counseling, physical activity guidance, and appropriate screening
• Psychosocial support: Counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation services to aid recovery

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad stands as a premier center for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, delivering accurate, personalized, and ethical care driven by innovation:

• Experienced multidisciplinary team of medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists
• State-of-the-art diagnostics including PET-CT, advanced bronchoscopy, and molecular testing
• Comprehensive treatment options from minimally invasive surgery to targeted therapy and immunotherapy
• Robust patient support system including counseling, rehabilitation, and survivorship care

While lung cancer presents significant challenges, advances in screening, diagnosis, surgical techniques, systemic therapies, and supportive care have dramatically improved patient outcomes. At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, we are committed to delivering world-class lung cancer treatment with compassionate care, empowering each patient to achieve optimal health, maintain quality of life, and face the future with hope.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are the main symptoms of lung cancer?

The primary symptoms include persistent cough, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), chest or shoulder pain, shortness of breath, unintentional weight loss, and recurrent respiratory infections such as pneumonia.

Q2. Who should consider lung cancer screening?

Individuals with significant smoking history, occupational exposures, and other risk factors should discuss screening options with their oncologist or pulmonologist.

Q3. Can non-smokers develop lung cancer?

Yes. While smoking is the leading cause, non-smokers can develop lung cancer due to air pollution, radon exposure, second-hand smoke, or genetic predisposition.

Q4. What happens after lung cancer treatment?

Patients undergo regular follow-up with imaging and rehabilitation. Supportive care includes physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation, healthy nutrition), psychosocial support, and monitoring for recurrence or late treatment effects.

Q5. Why is cancer staging important?

Staging determines the extent of cancer spread, which directly guides treatment planning and helps predict outcomes.

Q6. Is lung cancer curable if detected early?

Yes. Early-stage lung cancer patients have significantly better outcomes, particularly with surgery and targeted therapies.

Q7. Do targeted therapy and immunotherapy work for all patients?

Not necessarily. These treatments depend on specific genetic mutations or immune markers identified through diagnostic testing.

Q8. Does lung cancer progress rapidly?

Progression rates vary by cancer type. Some lung cancers grow more aggressively than others, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Q9. What lifestyle changes support recovery during treatment?

A balanced diet, gentle physical activity, breathing exercises, smoking cessation, and stress management help maintain strength and improve quality of life.

Q10. What makes Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad ideal for lung cancer care?

Apollo Hospitals combines expert oncologists, advanced diagnostic technology, multidisciplinary treatment planning, and personalized care plans, ensuring collaborative, high-quality comprehensive care.

Common Myths About Lung Cancer

Myth: Only smokers develop lung cancer.

Fact: Non-smokers can develop lung cancer due to air pollution, genetic factors, radon exposure, or environmental toxins.

Myth: Lung cancer always causes early symptoms.

Fact: Many patients remain asymptomatic until the disease reaches advanced stages, making screening crucial for high-risk individuals.

Myth: A standard chest X-ray rules out lung cancer.

Fact: Early-stage lung cancers may not appear on chest X-rays. CT scans provide superior early detection.

Myth: All lung cancer patients receive the same treatment.

Fact: Modern precision medicine tailors treatment based on tumor genetics, imaging findings, and individual patient factors.

Myth: A lung cancer diagnosis means there's nothing that can be done.

Fact: Advances in surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy have dramatically improved outcomes and quality of life for lung cancer patients.