Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, there are nearly 225,000 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed each year in the U.S. The two main types of lung cancer are non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. Thoracic cancers also include cancers of other organs in the chest well.
Smoking (and using other tobacco products) is the leading risk factor in lung cancer, with at least 80% of lung cancer deaths thought to be caused by smoking. Secondhand smoke can increase your risk of developing lung cancer by about 30%. Exposure to asbestos is a known risk factor for all lung cancers and mesothelioma.
Screening
Low dose chest CT has been shown to be effective to screen for lung cancer in high-risk patients. White Plains Hospital has developed a comprehensive lung cancer screening and nodule center in order to diagnose lung cancer at the earliest possible stage. White Plains Hospital has been designated as a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to advancing lung cancer research. In addition, the American College of Radiology has designated the Hospital as a Lung Cancer Screening Center.
Learn more about our lung cancer screening program.
Treatment
Lung cancer is a complex disease. At White Plains Hospital, our team consists of thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and radiologists with expertise in lung cancer and nodules. We also employ a Physician Assistant and Lung Cancer Navigator who assists patients in coordinating tests and appointments. Treatment for patients may vary depending on the individual type and stage of lung or thoracic cancer. Typical treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Surgical resection of lung cancer often affords patients afflicted with this disease the best chance of long-term survival. At White Plains Hospital, we perform a majority of our thoracic surgery with minimally invasive surgical techniques.