Most people diagnosed with lung cancers have non-small cell lung cancers. Despite its severity, treatment has proven to be effective in preventing its exacerbation. NSCLC is common among chronic smokers and individuals who breathe excessive smoke, especially those above 65 years. The longer an individual smokes and the number of packs smoked in a lifetime are risk factors for developing this type of lung cancer.
Studies reveal that by the time NSCLC is diagnosed, 40% will have spread beyond the lungs. Early detection provides a better prognosis because most cases may not be detected until they have metastasized. Apart from smoking and second-hand smoke, other risk factors for NSCLC include:
- A previous HIV infection
- Family history of lung cancer
- Environmental pollution
- Radiation exposure
- Workplace carcinogens
What is Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer?
Non-small cell lung cancer is a type of epithelial cancer that is predominantly found in the lung. It is commonly denoted as NSCL. NSCL is the most prominent type of lung cancer and accounts for more than 80% of lung cancer. In addition, specialists state that NSCL is more challenging to treat because it is unresponsive to chemotherapy. However, with more technological advancements in medicine and pharmacy, there is more hope for the total regression of NSCL.
The symptoms are shared with other types of lung cancers, and they include chest pain, coughing up blood, a cough that worsens over time, hoarseness, wheezing, and trouble swallowing. Persons may also experience fatigue, loss of weight, and loss of appetite.
There are three types of NSCLC, and the classification is based on the types of cells affected. These include:
- Adenocarcinoma - It represents 40% of all NSCLC cases, and it affects both non-smokers and smokers. Adenocarcinoma starts in the outer portions of the lungs in cells that produce mucus. Mostly, the mucus-producing cells of the bronchioles and small airways. Fortunately, adenocarcinoma grows more slowly than other types of NSCLC, leading to a better prognosis. But, unfortunately, it is also common in younger people.
- Large Cell Carcinoma - It is a rare form that accounts for about 10-15% of NSCLC cases. It is so aggressive and may occur anywhere in the lungs.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma - It is also known as epidermoid carcinoma. It accounts for about 25-30% of NSCLC diagnosis. Squamous cells align the bronchi. Squamous cell carcinoma often spreads to other parts of the body, making it difficult to manage. It is the form commonly associated with smoking.
The KRAS G12C Mutation
In 2018, about 2 million new lung cancers were reported, with NSCLC accounting for about 85%. The most frequent oncogenic driver mutations are located on the KRAS gene. Studies have indicated that the KRAS mutations are more common in the Western population than the Asian population.
KRAS mutations frequently occur in codons 12, 13, and 61, with 87% of this point mutation involving codon 12. KRAS G12C mutation alone occurs in about 11% of the mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma cases.
Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Treating NSCLC will depend on various factors such as:
- The patient’s age and overall health
- Whether the cancer has metastasized to other body areas
- Presence of proteins that enhance treatment
- The patient's support system
If the detection occurs early enough before spreading into other body areas, a surgical procedure in removing the tumor is the most suitable treatment option. Other forms of treatment include:
- Chemotherapy - It entails administering anticancer drugs directly into a vein or orally through taking pills to destroy the cancer cells. Chemotherapy prolongs life and alleviates some symptoms of NSCLC.
- Radiotherapy - It employs high-energy rays to destroy the cancerous cells and prevent new ones from developing. It is used in managing NSCLC that has not metastasized. It effectively improves the quality of life, reducing symptoms associated with this type of lung cancer.
- Targeted Therapy - It entails the use of anticancer drugs to eliminate cancerous cells without affecting the normal cells selectively. Targeted therapy is the most suitable if you have a specific gene mutation revealed during genetic testing.
- Immunotherapy - It is the most suitable for late-stage disease. It involves the activation of the patient’s immune system to end the cancerous cells.
