Lung Cancer
Our Approach to Lung Cancer Care
Lung cancer is the leading cause of all cancer deaths. The two primary types of lung cancer are called non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. The MaineHealth Cancer Care Network brings together teams of specialists to accurately detect and stage lung and other thoracic (within the chest) cancers.
Finding a Lung Cancer Specialist
The list below shows which doctors may be involved in your cancer care. Select the type of specialist you're looking for to find a provider in your area.
- Medical oncologists treating lung cancer use medicine (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, biotherapy and/or immunotherapy) rather than radiation.
- Surgeons treating lung cancer focus on the surgical management of the disease.
- Radiation oncologists use high energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells while sparing surrounding tissue.
- Cancer Patient Navigators make sure you have everything you need to make informed decisions about your care.
Why Do I Need to See So Many Doctors?
It is important that cancer specialists highly trained in their area of care participate in evaluating your diagnosis and planning your treatment.
Chronic cough, wheezing may be lung cancer signs
- Coughing (sometimes with blood)
- Chest and ribs hurt
- Wheezing
- Feeling out of breath
- Frequent chest colds and chest infections
- Weight loss
Recommendations for Lung Cancer Screenings
Ask your doctor about a lung cancer screening. Annual CAT scans, or LDCT screenings, are recommended for people at high risk of lung cancer. They include people who meet all three criteria:
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Between 55 and 80 years old
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Who currently smoke or quit smoking in the last 15 years, and
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Have a history of smoking at least one pack a day for 30 years, or two packs a day for 15 years.
Patients at high risk of lung cancer can get guidance and access to lung cancer screenings through the MaineHealth Cancer Care Network.
Lung Cancer Screening Locations
Lung Screening is for those with a long smoking history. Early detection and treatment of lung cancer typically provides more favorable outcomes. Below are Maine Health Organizations that offer LDCT scans for eligible individuals. Ask your primary care provider if lung screening is right for you.
Lung cancer treatment options can vary
Treatment depends on the cancer type and stage. Treatment options include:
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Surgery
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Radiation
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Chemotherapy
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Targeted therapies
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Clinical trials
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Complementary and integrative therapies