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Non-small cell lung cancer

Also called: NSCLC, Non small cell lung cancer

The most common type of lung cancer. Screening CT scans for people at high risk can find it early.

Share of lung cancersAbout 85 in 100
ScreeningYearly low-dose CT for ages 50 to 80 with a heavy smoking history

Overview

Non-small cell lung cancer usually grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type and is also the most common type in people who never smoked.

Treatment depends on stage and on gene tests of the tumor (like EGFR and ALK). Early cancer is often cured with surgery or focused radiation, and targeted pills and immunotherapy have greatly improved results for advanced cancer.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Cough that won't go away or that changes
  • Coughing up blood
  • Shortness of breath

Less common

  • Chest pain
  • Hoarse voice
  • Weight loss and tiredness
  • Pneumonia that keeps coming back

Look up a symptom: Cough lasting more than 3 weeks · Getting winded easily with activity or stairs · Hoarse voice · Losing weight without trying · Smoke or used to smoke · Spot on the lung, or a smoker with a cough that's new or changed

When to get medical care

Call 911Trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, a seizure, sudden confusion, or fainting: call 911.
Get care todayFever during cancer treatment, or new or quickly worsening symptoms.
See a doctor soonSymptoms lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks.

Causes

Changes in a cell's genes that make it grow out of control. Most happen by chance; some are linked to the risk factors below or to inherited genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Cancer isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Smoking (including past smoking)
  • Secondhand smoke
  • Radon gas at home
  • Asbestos and workplace exposures
  • Family history

Diagnosis

Tests look for the cause. Many people checked for these symptoms turn out not to have cancer.

Questions you may be asked

  • When symptoms started and whether they're getting worse
  • Family history of cancer
  • Past illnesses, treatments, and exposures

The exam

A physical exam, focused on where the symptoms are.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Chest CT scan:
  • Biopsy: With gene and PD-L1 testing.
  • PET scan and brain MRI: To check for spread.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and your overall health. A cancer care team makes a plan with you.

Self-care

  • Write down symptoms and when they started
  • Bring someone with you to appointments
  • Ask for copies of test results
  • Ask about clinical trials: they can offer new treatments
  • Quit smoking: it helps at every stage

Surgery, focused radiation, chemotherapy, targeted pills, or immunotherapy.

Prevention

To lower risk or find it early:

  • Quit smoking at any age
  • Test your home for radon
  • Lung cancer screening if you qualify

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an oncologist (cancer doctor), often working with surgeons and radiation doctors.

Living with it

  • Keep a simple notebook of symptoms, medicines, and questions for visits.
  • Ask for a survivorship care plan when treatment ends.
  • Gentle activity, like walking, can ease tiredness.
  • A cancer diagnosis can affect mood. Tell the care team if you or your family feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Many people keep working during or after treatment.
  • Ask about changes that help, like flexible hours. Workers may be covered by the ADA.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your cancer team. Some treatments can harm a baby.
  • Ask about saving eggs or sperm before treatment if you may want children later.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care, like fever during treatment.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the type and stage. Cancers found early are usually easier to treat, and treatments keep improving.

Support is available: ask about social workers, nutrition help, and support groups.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started
  • Past test results and scans

Questions to ask

  • What do the gene tests on my tumor show?
  • Am I a candidate for surgery?
  • What stage is it, and what are the treatment options?
  • Are there clinical trials for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Non-small cell lung cancer

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.