Lung cancer can be devastating. Often diagnosed at advanced stages, it can be a real challenge to treat.
But, there’s hope. Early detection significantly increases the chances of remission. Regular screenings and awareness can catch lung cancer when it’s still localized, improving your treatment outcomes.
Advances in medical research offer promising therapies, providing optimism for those diagnosed. Stick on this page to learn more about the odds of curing lung cancer completely in the hands of a lung cancer specialist. But first;
How do I accept that I have Cancer?
Accepting a lung cancer diagnosis can be challenging. But, it’s a crucial step in managing the disease. It will also be key in maintaining your well-being.
And acceptance does not mean that you’re okay with having cancer. It means acknowledging the reality of your situation. It also means, finding ways to move forward.
Acceptance can be a gradual process. It may also take some time to reach this stage. Every person’s experience with lung cancer is also unique.
The good news is that there are strategies that can help you cope with the emotional and practical challenges it presents. Key among these includes;
- Have a Support System: Reach out to your friends and family; they can provide invaluable emotional support and practical assistance. Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs to them. Sharing your feelings and concerns can make the journey less overwhelming.
- Consider Counseling or Therapy: Consider professional counseling or therapy. These services can be immensely helpful in processing your emotions, managing anxiety, and developing effective coping strategies. A trained therapist can provide guidance tailored to your needs.
- Get into Support Groups: Joining a support group for individuals with lung cancer can offer a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who are going through similar challenges can provide emotional relief and encouragement.
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help with stress and anxiety. They promote a sense of calm. These activities can also improve your overall mental well-being. With a better mental health, it is easier to navigate the emotional aspects of your journey. Some of the best mindfulness and relaxation techniques you may want to try includes; meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga.
- Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Follow proper nutrition, as advised by your healthcare team. Also, engage in regular physical activity, and get adequate rest. These habits will not just positively impact your physical health. They can also help improve your emotional state, promoting a sense of well-being.
- Learn about Cancer: Try to learn about your condition. Also, find out about available treatment options. Understanding what lies ahead can reduce anxiety. It could also be just what you need to make informed decisions about your care. Your lung cancer specialist and their team can be a valuable resource for information.
- Seek Creative Outlets: Engaging in creative activities, such as art, music, or writing, can be therapeutic. These outlets provide emotional expression and can serve as a means to channel your thoughts and feelings constructively.
Can Lung Cancer be cured completely?
Early detection is key in the battle against lung cancer. If you experience any concerning symptoms or fall into a high-risk category, do not delay. Consult a lung cancer specialist promptly, as timely intervention can significantly impact the outcome. Here are some of the different options for treating lung cancer;
- Surgery: This is often the primary treatment for lung cancer. It is particularly effective when the disease is detected in its early stages. In cases where the tumor is localized and hasn’t spread extensively, the lung cancer specialist may remove the affected portion of the lung (wedge resection or segmentectomy). They may also choose to remove the entire lung (lobectomy or pneumonectomy). Surgical treatment aims to remove the cancerous tissue but still preserve healthy lung function.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be used as a primary treatment for small, localized tumors. It may also be used as an adjunct to surgery or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy is also an option for palliative care. Here, it can be used to alleviate symptoms when a cure is no longer feasible.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered intravenously or orally. Chemo is often recommended for advanced lung cancer. It may also be viable for cases where cancer has spread to distant organs. It can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with surgery or radiation therapy.
- Targeted Therapy: Just as it sounds, targeted therapies are designed to target specific genetic mutations or proteins. They target proteins or mutations involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. These treatments are most effective when certain mutations, such as EGFR or ALK, are present in the tumor. Targeted therapy can be used when chemotherapy isn’t the best option. It offers a more tailored approach to treatment.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy enhances the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Drugs like checkpoint inhibitors can block the mechanisms that prevent the immune system from attacking cancer cells.
With all these treatment options, you may wonder, so can lung cancer be cured completely? Now, a complete cure of lung cancer depends on several factors. Key among these factors includes;
- The stage at diagnosis
- The type of lung cancer, and
- The overall health of the patient
In early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), complete cure is possible. This is especially true when the tumor is surgically removed, and there’s no evidence of cancer spread to lymph nodes or distant organs.
However, even in these cases, regular follow-up is still key. They can help detect any recurrence. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, is typically more aggressive.
It may respond well to initial treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. However, complete cure is less common. Long-term survival rates for SCLC are generally lower than for NSCLC.
For advanced stages of lung cancer, where the disease has spread to distant organs, achieving a complete cure becomes challenging. In these cases, treatment focuses on these key goals;
- Extending life
- Alleviating symptoms, and
- Improving your quality of life
These goals can be achieved through a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care.
Final Thoughts
The outcome of lung cancer treatment isn’t all the same. It varies significantly based on individual circumstances.
Nonetheless, early detection and prompt treatment provide the best chances for a complete cure. If you’re worried about you or a loved one’s health, consult with a lung cancer specialist to explore the most appropriate treatment options.
If you’re seeking the help or counsel of a lung cancer specialist in Singapore, get in touch now to schedule a consultation. Here are our contact details;
The International Centre for Thoracic Surgery
38 Irrawaddy Road #10-38
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
Singapore 329563
+65 6591 8801