Best Lung Cancer Doctors in Bangalore

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the lung, often associated with tobacco smoking. However, it can also affect non-smokers due to exposure to harmful chemicals such as asbestos and radon, genetic changes, environmental factors, and secondhand smoke exposure.

In Bangalore, the incidence of lung cancer has been increasing, primarily due to increased smoking habits and exposure to pollutants. Fortunately, Apollo Hospitals offers top-notch care from the best doctors and specialists treating lung cancer, providing residents with access to world-class treatment and facilities.

Types/Stages of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer commonly has two primary types, Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC). The stages range from 0 to 4, with higher numbers indicating a more advanced stage for NSCLC, while SCLC is classified into limited-stage and extensive-stage:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type of lung cancer comprising several sub-types like adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma.

• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This type grows rapidly and tends to metastasise early, spreading swiftly to other organs such as the liver, brain, and bones. It is commonly associated with smoking.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer symptoms can be subtle in the early stages but become more pronounced as the disease progresses, which may include:

• Persistent coughing or changes in a chronic cough

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Hoarseness or voice changes

• Frequent chest infections

• Fatigue or weakness

Tests to Diagnose Lung Cancer

Doctors specialising in lung cancer treatment at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, utilise several diagnostic measures to confirm their diagnosis, which include:

• Imaging Tests: These may include chest X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, or MRI scans to detect abnormal growths or masses in the lungs.

• Sputum Test: This test involves examining mucus coughed up from the lungs under a microscope to detect cancer cells.

• Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken from the lung either through a needle biopsy, bronchoscopy, or surgical biopsy to examine for cancer cells.

• Blood tests: Blood tests may be conducted to look for markers associated with lung cancer, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) or cytokeratin fragment 21-1 (CYFRA 21-1).

• Pulmonary function tests: These tests evaluate lung function and capacity, aiding in the identification of any obstructions or abnormalities and providing insights into overall lung health.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lung Cancer at Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore

Early detection of lung cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore, with a team of the best specialists who treat lung cancer, offers state-of-the-art treatment options, which include:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumour and surrounding tissue is often recommended for early-stage lung cancer. The best doctors specialising in lung cancer treatment perform these surgeries.

• Chemotherapy: Drug therapy, either alone or combined with other treatments, is a common strategy for treating lung cancer. It works by targeting cancer cells to inhibit their growth and division.

• Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays or other types of radiation are used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours.

• Targeted Therapy: This treatment targets specific abnormalities in cancer cells that allow them to grow and survive, such as EGFR mutations or ALK rearrangements.

• Immunotherapy: It works by helping the body's immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.

• Palliative care: Palliative care focuses on alleviating the symptoms and side effects of lung cancer, improving the quality of life for patients.