Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is generally diagnosed on a chest X-ray, which is done for other reasons or as part of a health check-up. The associated symptoms of lung cancer include:

• Persistent cough
• Blood in sputum (spit or phlegm)
• Shortness of breath–either on exertion or at rest
• Chest pain
• Change in voice

Early detection is essential for improving survival rates, and regular check-ups with a lung cancer specialist in Mumbai are highly recommended for those at risk.

• Tobacco smoking (causes 60-65 per cent of lung cancers)
• Exposure to second-hand or passive smoking
• Exposure to radon gas, asbestos and other carcinogens
• Family history of lung cancer

The cost to treat lung cancer in India may vary based on the complexity of treatment, but early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

• Stage I: Cancer is confined to lung
• Stage II/III: Cancer is confined to chest
• Stage IV: Cancer spreads to other organs (lymph nodes, brain, liver, adrenal glands)

Over 80 per cent of lung cancers have a chance to be cured if detected early. Lung cancer is diagnosed in the following ways:

Primary diagnosis

Chest X-ray or a CT scan

Secondary diagnosis

Bronchoscopy, EBUS (Endobronchial Ultrasound) or CT-guided biopsy for obtaining tissue from the tumour

Advanced diagnosis

PET CT whole body, MRI, Mediastinoscopy and other surgical procedures

Treatment for lung cancer depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. Common options include:

Stage I/II

Surgery can be considered. Our Centre for Cancer offers advanced surgical techniques with better recovery outcomes.

Stage III

Combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be required to shrink tumors before surgery

Stage IV

Chemotherapy, oral targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiation therapy are treatment options

Kokilaben Hospital uses state-of-the-art technology such as:

• Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for lung resection aiding early recovery
• Robot-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for early cancer
• Lung Sparing surgery (including Sleeve Lobectomy)
• Mediastonscopy for staging
• Endobronchial Ultrasonography (EBUS)
• Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

Each patient’s treatment plan is tailored by their stage of cancer and overall health condition. Our Centre for Cancer is renowned for the best lung cancer treatment in India. By seeking timely care and staying informed, individuals can take control of their lung health and improve their quality of life.

50 per cent of surgeries for lung cancer at Kokilaben Hospital are done using Video Assisted Thorocoscopic Surgery (VATS). VATS is a keyhole surgery that reduces postoperative pain, aids in early recovery, avoids prominent scars and reduces length of hospital stay.

• Dont smoke: Smoking goes hand in hand with lung cancer.
• Avoid second-hand smoke: Avoid smoke from other peoples cigarettes as well. Make your home and car smoke-free.
• Diet: Research suggests that eating a low-fat, high-fibre diet, including at least five portions a day of fresh fruit and vegetables and plenty of whole grains, can reduce your risk of lung cancer, as well as
  • Dont smoke: Smoking goes hand in hand with lung cancer.
  • Avoid second-hand smoke: Avoid smoke from other peoples cigarettes as well. Make your home and car smoke-free.
  • Diet: Research suggests that eating a low-fat, high-fibre diet, including at least five portions a day of fresh fruit and vegetables and plenty of whole grains, can reduce your risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer and heart disease.
  • Exercise: Adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
  • Safety from radon gas: Unsafe levels of radon can accumulate in any building, including homes. Get your home tested for radon.
  • Be careful at work. Health and safety guidelines in the workplace can help workers avoid carcinogens–things that can cause cancer.
  • Laugh a lot: Laughing clears the lungs.

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, contributing to approximately 85% of cases. Tobacco smoke contains toxic chemicals that harm the cells lining the lungs. Over time, this damage leads to abnormal cell growth, resulting in cancer. While smoking is the most well-known risk factor, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer due to other environmental exposures.