What’s the truth about non-small lung cancer myths? In the “Fact or Fiction? Busting Myths About Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer” program, expert Dr. David Carbone from The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC) explains accurate information about three non-small lung cancer myths. 

1. Lung cancer is a disease of the older population.

Unfortunately, anyone of any age can develop lung cancer. A minimum age of 50 or older is required for some lung cancer CT screening programs, but many patients in their 30s or 40 or even younger have developed lung cancer. Lung cancer treatments have advanced in recent years, and research funding is important to continue developing new effective treatments.

2. Quality of life is greatly diminished after undergoing treatment for lung cancer.

Contrary to what many people may think, quality of life usually improves after starting lung cancer treatment. Lung cancer specialists want their patients to feel better, and improving their quality of life is the primary concern for them.

3. There are no effective treatments for advanced lung cancer.

Advanced lung cancer treatments have increased and improved as more research has been carried out. Time of survival was formerly measured in the number of months. But as better treatments have been approved for use, time of survival has been measured in the number of  years instead. Treatment options can vary by the situation of each patient, but treatments for advanced lung cancer have in general become more effective.

By understanding more about non-small cell lung cancer, detection efforts can be increased to improve health outcomes for patients of all ages, health situations, and lung cancer stages. If you want to increase funding for lung cancer research, take action to join lung cancer fundraising activities. In addition, the Lung Cancer Research Foundation is one credible resource for finding lung cancer information.