Lung Cancer, considered one of the more aggressive forms of cancer, develops in the tissues of the lungs, usually in the cells lining the air passages. It’s categorized according to four stages, with Stage 1 being the mildest (and least life threatening), and Stage 4 being the most severe (and most life threatening). These four stages are:

Stage I: the lung cancer is confined to the lung tissue alone (This stage has the highest hope of recovery)
Stage II: the lung cancer is confined to the lung tissue and the lymph nodes inside the lung
Stage III: the lung cancer is confined to the lung tissue and lymph nodes inside and outside of the lung
Stage IV: the lung cancer has spread to the liver, adrenal glands, bone, brain, and/or other sites.

The stage of development and the type of lung cancer, such as Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), determine the treatment options, as does the patient’s general health.

The likely treatments and approximate cure rates for each stage of lung cancer are:

Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Main Treatment: Surgery
Cure Rate: 67%

Stage II Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Main Treatment: Surgery
Cure Rate: 40-50%

Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Main Treatment: Chemotherapy + Radiation
Cure Rate: Less than 60%

Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Main Treatment: Chemotherapy + Radiation
Cure Rate: Less than 80%

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
Main Treatment: Chemotherapy + Radiation
Cure Rate: Varies

Researchers around the world continue to study the causes of lung cancer and to search for a cure. However, a very poor prognosis continues to be attached to a diagnosis of lung cancer.