Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the two most common forms of cancer and makes up approximately 85 percent of lung cancers.
Unfortunately, most people overlook symptoms of lung cancer such as coughing and fatigue making early-stage lung cancer (stages I and II) difficult to detect. When someone is diagnosed with lung cancer, determining the stage of the cancer is an important next step.
Stages of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Stage I: Cancer is detected only in the lungs and has not spread.
Stage II: Cancer is in the lung and has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III: Cancer is found in the lung and in the lymph nodes in the middle of the chest, also described as locally advanced disease.
Stage IV: The most advanced stage of lung cancer due to the spread of the disease to both lungs, to fluid in the area around the lungs, or to another part of the body, such as the liver or other organs.
The stage of a person’s lung cancer plays a large role in determining the best treatment plan. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, investigate all options available before seeking treatment. Learn how Austin CyberKnife treats lung cancer here.
This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.