Lung cancer

Spotting the signs and symptoms of lung cancer early in its development is essential to ensuring you have the best possible outcome. Signs of lung cancer tend to not show up until the disease is in later stages, but early detection is still possible with screenings and diagnostic tests.

Talk to your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

• A new, chronic cough or a cough that doesn't go away
• Chest pain that is worse with deep breathing or coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Fatigue
• Hoarseness
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained loss of appetite and/or weight loss

The goal of lung cancer screening is to identify cancer in its earliest stages when it is more treatable and potentially even curable. Early lung cancer screening is often performed when a patient is not symptomatic but is considered to have a high risk of developing lung cancer.

Our lung cancer specialists use low-dose computerized tomography (LDCT) scans to screen for lung cancer. These scans are similar to CT scans but use a lower dose of radiation to create the images of the lungs.

In addition, the Navigational Bronch/Lung Nodule Clinic at Henrico Doctors' Hospital uses advanced minimally invasive technology to evaluate lung nodules in the earliest stages.

• 50-80 years old*
• Those who have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history and are current smokers or have quit within the past 15 years

* Must be 50-77 for Medicare

Determining pack-year

20 Pack-Year Equivalent

• 1 pack a day for 20 years
• 2 packs a day for 10 years

Despite advances in screening, it cannot prevent all lung cancer-related deaths, and smoking cessation remains essential. For more information on lung cancer, visit Sarah Cannon’s Lung Cancer Symptoms, Screening, Stages.

• For more information on lung cancer screening and risk factors, call askSARAH at (844) 482-4812 to speak to a nurse who is specially trained to help with your cancer questions or visit askSARAH.

Following your initial exam, our lung cancer specialists may recommend a number of tests to accurately determine the type and stage of your cancer. We use a wide range of advanced technologies and various medical imaging tests to ensure you get an accurate diagnosis.

Our diagnostic services include:

• Bronchoscopy
• Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)
• Esophageal ultrasound (EUS)
• Image-guided needle biopsy and needle aspiration
• LDCT scans
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Mediastinoscopy/mediastinotomy
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Thoracentesis
• Thoracic imaging

In addition, LewisGale Medical Center offers robotic bronchoscopy for lung biopsies and detecting cancer at an earlier stage when it can be treated more effectively.

When lung cancer is detected early, our doctors have a better chance of successfully treating your cancer. Our experienced team of oncologists treat new and recurring lung, esophageal, pleural, mediastinal and chest wall tumors with advanced and minimally invasive technology and techniques.

Our treatments for lung cancer include:

• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Minimally invasive robot-assisted surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Stereotactic radiosurgery
• Thoracotomy
• Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)

We understand how stressful and scary a cancer diagnosis can be. That's why we are proud to offer lung cancer support services, including a lung cancer support group and a smoking cessation program.

The goal of our lung cancer support group is to provide you with educational resources and a cancer community to stand with you on your journey to recovery. The support group meets the second Tuesday of every month at 5:00pm at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at Henrico Doctors' Hospital.

Our smoking cessation program

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to stop smoking. We recognize that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to quitting smoking, but when you are ready to ask for help, we are here for you.

Our smoking cessation program can help you stop smoking for good in just seven weeks. Participants in our program are six times more likely to be smoke-free one year after starting our program than those who try to quit on their own. Up to 60 percent of participants report being smoke-free by the end of the program when used in combination with smoking cessation medications.

Our American Lung Association Freedom from Smoking program is offered periodically throughout the year and includes ample group interaction, consisting of eight sessions over seven weeks. There is a one-time $60 fee due at registration on your first day.

If you're unsure, let us help you understand whether you have any potential risk factors for developing lung cancer with our free assessment tool.

Our multispecialty lung cancer program is comprised of a team of oncologists, radiation technicians, thoracic surgeons and pulmonary care specialists. This team will work together to create a comprehensive plan for your treatment, recovery and follow-up care tailored to your specific health needs.

We also offer an extended network of care resources, including :"

• A lung cancer nurse navigator who assists with all aspects of your care
• Dietitians who can address your changing nutritional needs as you recover from surgery and pursue follow-up treatments
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation services to help you recover and rebuild strength
• Support groups to guide you from diagnosis and treatment through recovery and beyond

Lung cancer nurse navigators

When you choose one of our hospitals for your lung cancer treatment, you will be paired with an experienced nurse navigator who will offer guidance and support to both you and your family. Your nurse navigator is specially trained to answer your questions, help you make informed care decisions and serve as a resource for your unique needs.

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (804) 591-4152.