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Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options

November 3, 2026

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer, yet the majority of people remain unaware of the early warning signs, risk factors and latest advances in treatment.

At Episcopal Health Services (EHS), patients have access to advanced lung cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment, all in one location at the EHS Cancer Center at The Walsh Ambulatory Pavilion. With a focus on early detection and comprehensive care, EHS is helping patients navigate lung cancer with more options, greater support and better outcomes.

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the lungs and form tumors. Today, it is broadly classified into two main types:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer, which accounts for approximately 90%t of cases
  • Small cell lung cancer, which accounts for approximately 10% of cases

Because these types are treated differently, accurate diagnosis and staging are essential to developing an effective, personalized treatment plan.

Lung Cancer Is Not Just a Smoker’s Disease

While smoking remains the leading risk factor for lung cancer, the disease is no longer limited to individuals who smoke. In fact, many people diagnosed with lung cancer today have never smoked. However, smoking continues to significantly increase risk, making prevention and early detection especially important.

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer

One of the biggest challenges with lung cancer is that it is often diagnosed at a later stage. Many patients do not experience noticeable symptoms until the disease has already progressed.

Common warning signs include:

  • A persistent cough that does not go away
  • Coughing up blood, even once
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Shortness of breath or chest discomfort

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a provider at EHS as soon as possible.

Why Early Detection Matters

Like many cancers, lung cancer is most treatable when caught early. A critical factor in diagnosis is determining whether the cancer has spread beyond the lungs.

  • If cancer is confined to the lung, it may be curable, often with surgery
  • If cancer has spread to other organs, treatment typically focuses on management rather than cure

At EHS, early detection is a top priority, helping more patients access timely, life-saving treatment options.

Lung Cancer Screening at EHS

Screening is one of the most effective tools for detecting lung cancer at an early stage.

At EHS:

  • High-risk patients, particularly those with a history of smoking, may be eligible for annual CT scans
  • Providers throughout the system help identify patients who qualify for screening
  • Early detection enables more timely treatment and improved outcomes

While lung cancer screening is not recommended for everyone, it plays a critical role for those at increased risk.

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

Understanding risk factors can help reduce the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

The most common risk factors include:

  • Smoking or a history of smoking
  • Exposure to secondhand smoke
  • Environmental or occupational exposures such as dust, chemicals, or pollution
  • Exposure to harmful substances like asbestos

At EHS, providers work closely with patients to assess individual risk and recommend appropriate screening and prevention strategies.

Lung Cancer Treatment Options at EHS

Lung cancer treatment is tailored to the type of cancer, stage of disease, and overall health of the patient. At EHS, patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, with comprehensive services available in one coordinated setting.

Treatment options may include:

Surgery

For early-stage lung cancer, surgery may be used to remove the tumor and can, in some cases, be curative.

Radiation Therapy

Advanced radiation technologies, including TrueBeam radiation therapy, enable highly precise targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy

Modern treatments approaches may include:

These advances have transformed lung cancer care, helping many patients live longer and maintain a better quality of life.

Take the Next Step

If you are experiencing symptoms, have risk factors, or are interested in screening, early action can make a difference. Learn more about cancer care at EHS and connect with a provider to discuss lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options by clicking here.

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