Jennifer Mendoza
Research expert covering health, pharma and medtech
Lung cancer - Statistics & Facts
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, with lung cancer accounting for the highest number of cancer-related deaths among both men and women. There are two major types of lung cancer: small cell and non-small cell. Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer with small cell appearing most often in heavy smokers. Symptoms of lung cancer vary depending on the stage of the cancer and if it has spread to other parts of the body, but may include coughing, chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and constantly feeling tired. Treatment options for lung cancer depend on the type and stage with non-small cell treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or targeted therapy. Small cell lung cancer is usually treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Although lung cancer is the deadliest type of cancer in the United States, it is only the second most diagnosed cancer in both men and women. Breast cancer remains the most common type of cancer among women and prostate cancer is the most common form in men.
