Best Lung Cancer Doctors in Mumbai

Lung cancer, a severe health concern, begins with the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells in the lungs. The main cause is smoking, which accounts for up to 90% of cases. Exposure to radon gas and other harmful substances such as asbestos, arsenic, chromium, and air pollution can also lead to this condition. A family history of the disease and genetic mutations further increase the risk.

For individuals in Mumbai seeking comprehensive and effective treatment for lung cancer, Apollo Hospitals provides access to some of the best doctors specialising in lung cancer treatment and bronchial carcinoma treatment.

Types of Lung Cancer

There are two main types of lung cancer, as follows:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): NSCLC is the more prevalent form, accounting for over 80% of cases, and encompasses adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): SCLC is known for its aggressive growth and resistance to treatment.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

In the early stages, lung cancer often presents no symptoms; however, as the disease advances, individuals may experience:

• Continuous cough

• Difficulty in breathing

• Chest pain

• Hoarseness of voice

• Extreme weight loss

• Recurrent respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia

• Wheezing

• Coughing up blood

Tests to Diagnose Lung Cancer

To diagnose lung cancer accurately, doctors specialising in lung cancer treatment and lung malignancy treatment at Apollo Hospitals employ a range of procedures, including:

• Chest X-ray: Provides an initial screening for abnormalities in the lungs.

• Computerised Tomography (CT) Scan: Offers detailed images of the lungs to detect and evaluate lung conditions.

• PET Scan: Helps identify malignant tumours and determine the extent of cancer spread.

• Biopsy: Involves collecting tissue samples from the lungs for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

• Bronchoscopy: Allows direct visualisation of the airways in the lungs and facilitates biopsy procedures.

• Sputum Cytology: Examines coughed-up mucus under a microscope to detect cancer cells

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lung Cancer at Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai

At Apollo Hospitals, home to leading specialists in small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer treatment, the treatment options for lung cancer are determined by the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. These options include:

• Surgery: This may involve procedures like lobectomy (removal of the lung lobe), wedge resection (removal of a part of a lung) or pneumonectomy (removal of the entire lung).

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often administered either in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment.

• Radiation Therapy: Utilizes high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It can be used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy to shrink tumours prior to surgery and eliminate residual cancer cells post-surgery.

• Targeted Therapy: It is a newer treatment that targets specific genetic mutations. It is designed to selectively target cancer cells while minimising harm to healthy cells.

• Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts the immune system's ability to fight cancer more effectively.