According to the United States Cancer Statistics, the country reported 197,453 new cases of lung cancer in 2020, where males had higher fatality rates. Like other cancers, lung cancer is categorized by stages based on how widespread it is in the body. Generally, the higher the stage, the more severe the cancer. Late-stage lung cancer can exhibit a higher severity of symptoms but might also mean limited treatment options.
Signs
Late-stage lung cancer or stage 4 lung cancer is when the cancer has metastasized. Some patients get diagnosed at this stage due to its worsening symptoms. Before this, some overlook the symptoms or associate them with another condition.
- Persistent cough is among the most common signs of lung cancer. It can last for weeks or even months at a stretch. Some patients who experience hemoptysis should be quick to visit the doctor.
- Chest pain is another sign of late-stage lung cancer in patients. Patients experience sharp stabbing pains that may or may not be specific to a local area. Some patients report experiencing a dull kind of ache that persists all over their chest.
- Shortness of breath is present if the person has been performing activities that can tire or exert them. It is also known as dyspnea. It can progressively worsen to constant breathlessness even when at rest.
- Persistent and debilitating fatigue is another common sign. It is more severe than normal tiredness or exhaustion.
Survival rate
As the cancer progresses, treatment can get tricky. The organization also suggested that the five-year survival rate for late-stage NSCLC patients is 8%. In comparison, for people diagnosed with SMCL, it is 3%.
However, with advanced technologies and upcoming treatments, it might be possible for patients to receive a better prognosis and higher survival rates. The statistics are based on the records of people who were diagnosed with advanced stages of lung cancer, and recent treatment options might help beat the odds.
Treatment options
There are no proper treatments for late-stage lung cancer. However, some methods can be used to manage the signs and symptoms. Doctors will decide on the treatment plan based on the severity and spread of the cancer cells. The plan can help improve the patient’s quality of life, condition, and chances of survival.
- Surgery is one of the primary treatment options at this stage. However, it can only be useful if the cancer has not managed to bypass the lymph nodes in the area.
- Radiation therapy can also be used to manage late-stage lung cancer as it helps kill cancerous cells with the help of radiation. Even during the late stages, it can be used to manage tumors metastasizing to other organs.
- Treatments like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy use various chemical compounds that aim to destroy cancerous cells. They can also prevent the growth of new carcinogenic cells.
