Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is Stage 4 Lung Cancer?
- Causes of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
- Symptoms of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
- Diagnosis of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
- Treatment of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
- Prognosis of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
- How Long Can Someone Live with Stage 4 Lung Cancer?
- Conclusion
Introduction
Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadly forms of cancer. It is estimated that more than 200,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with lung cancer each year. Stage 4 lung cancer is the most advanced form of the disease, and it can be difficult to treat. In this article, we will discuss what stage 4 lung cancer is, what causes it, what the symptoms are, how it is diagnosed, how it is treated, and how long someone can live with stage 4 lung cancer.
What is Stage 4 Lung Cancer?
Stage 4 lung cancer is the most advanced form of the disease. It is characterized by the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, bones, liver, or brain. Stage 4 lung cancer is divided into two subtypes: limited stage and extensive stage. Limited stage is when the cancer is confined to one side of the chest and has not spread to other parts of the body. Extensive stage is when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Causes of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
The exact cause of stage 4 lung cancer is unknown, but there are some factors that can increase a person’s risk. These include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, exposure to certain chemicals, and a family history of lung cancer.
Symptoms of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
The symptoms of stage 4 lung cancer can vary depending on where the cancer has spread. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, and weight loss.
Diagnosis of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
Stage 4 lung cancer is usually diagnosed with a combination of tests, including a physical exam, imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI, and a biopsy.
Treatment of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
Treatment for stage 4 lung cancer typically includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. The type of treatment will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the person’s overall health.
Prognosis of Stage 4 Lung Cancer
The prognosis for stage 4 lung cancer is generally poor. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for people with stage 4 lung cancer is less than 10%.
How Long Can Someone Live with Stage 4 Lung Cancer?
The length of time someone can live with stage 4 lung cancer depends on a variety of factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the person’s overall health, and the type of treatment they receive. Generally, the prognosis for stage 4 lung cancer is poor, and the average life expectancy is less than one year.
Conclusion
Stage 4 lung cancer is the most advanced form of the disease and is characterized by the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body. The exact cause of stage 4 lung cancer is unknown, but there are some factors that can increase a person’s risk. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, and weight loss. Treatment for stage 4 lung cancer typically includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. The prognosis for stage 4 lung cancer is generally poor, and the average life expectancy is less than one year.
Sources:
American Cancer Society. (2021). Lung Cancer Survival Rates. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html
National Cancer Institute. (2021). Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/lung-treatment-pdq