Lung Cancer
Lung cancer, or pulmonary carcinoma, occurs when lung cells grow uncontrollably, often due to tobacco smoke, radiation, or asbestos exposure. However, it can also occur in people with no clear risk factors. As the third most commonly occurring cancer in the U.S., lung cancer requires specialized expertise and timely care.
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we treat advanced lung cancer cases and provide rapid access to world-class oncologists, breakthrough treatments, and one of the nation’s most robust clinical trial programs.
Call us at (310) 552-9999 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation today.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer typically starts in the airways (the bronchi or bronchioles) or in tiny air sacs called alveoli, where the oxygen you breathe in is absorbed and transferred to the bloodstream.
There are two main types of lung cancer:
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most common type, accounting for about 85% of all lung cancer cases, NSCLC tends to grow and spread more slowly.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): A less common but aggressive form of lung cancer that spreads rapidly.
Our oncologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating all forms of lung cancer, from the most common to the rarest subtypes. One such rare subtype we treat is Bronchial Carcinoid Tumor, which grows slowly but can produce hormone-related symptoms like rapid heartbeat or unexplained weight changes.
What Makes Our Care for Lung Cancer Unique
We understand time is of the essence in lung cancer treatment. That’s why our team prioritizes fast, accessible care, providing same-week appointments and accepting HMO and Kaiser patients to help you get the treatment you need without delay.
Furthermore, our specialists are nationally recognized for their expertise in lung cancer and clinical trial leadership. In fact, our center is among the top enrollers in many clinical studies, giving you access to therapies not yet widely available.
This combination of world-class expertise, innovative treatment options, and faster access sets us apart and allows us to create personalized plans for even the most complex cases.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Many early symptoms of lung cancer are easy to overlook or tend to be mistaken for minor illnesses like bronchitis. Common warning signs include:
- Persistent cough or coughing up blood
- Chest, arm, or shoulder pain
- Shortness of breath and wheezing
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
- Frequent lung infections
If the condition has reached an advanced stage, it may cause bone pain, headaches, or neurological symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, evaluation by a cancer specialist is critical.
We offer same-week appointments and trusted second opinions so you can move forward with your treatment confidently and without delay.
Risk Factors of Lung Cancer
Common risk factors of lung cancer include:
- Tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure
- Exposure to asbestos, radon, arsenic, diesel exhaust, silica, and other toxins
- Previous radiation therapy to the chest
- Family history of lung cancer or bronchial carcinoid tumors
- Age (most diagnoses around age 60)
- Gender (more common in women)
- Race (more common in Caucasians)
- Certain medical conditions, like Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) and HIV infection
Although not all risks can be controlled, avoiding tobacco and harmful exposures can lower your risk.
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Our lung cancer specialists prioritize accuracy and speed because we know that with cancer treatment, every day matters.
The diagnostic may involve:
- Evaluating medical history, available imaging reports, and pathology reports
- Relevant blood tests
- Biopsy to confirm stage and type
- Additional imaging tests
- Comprehensive record review by our expert team
Our team provides a clear explanation of your diagnosis and available treatment options so that you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Advanced Treatment Options We Offer
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we focus on creating a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific type of cancer, its stage, your health history, and your life priorities.
Led by Dr. Sant Chawla, a recognized pioneer in cancer research, our lung cancer specialists develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific diagnosis and needs. We work closely with leading surgeons, pathologists, and radiation oncologists to provide the best treatment options.
Our treatment approach combines proven and innovative therapies to maximize effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
Chemotherapy & targeted therapy use powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells or block their growth
Immunotherapy helps your immune system fight cancer with fewer side effects
Clinical trials offer the opportunity to benefit from the latest experimental treatments not widely available elsewhere
Radiation therapy targets tumors with precision to minimize damage to healthy tissue
Surgery to remove tumors precisely in coordination with the best surgeons
Compassionate Use INDs provide access to potentially life-saving therapies when standard options aren’t enough
Lung Cancer Treatment in Southern California
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we combine global expertise with a family-like environment. Patients travel from across the U.S. and abroad to access therapies here because they know we fight for every option available.
For appointments, please call us at 310-552-9999 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid tobacco use, limit exposure to harmful substances like asbestos and radon, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get regular medical check-ups if you’re at higher risk.
If you experience a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, or recurrent respiratory infections, especially if you have a history of smoking or exposure to lung cancer risk factors, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible.
Treatment success depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health. Early-stage lung cancer is often more treatable. Advanced stages are typically managed to control symptoms and improve quality of life.
While most lung cancer cases are linked to environmental factors like smoking, having a family history of lung cancer can increase your risk. Genetic factors can play a role, especially in rare cases like bronchial carcinoid tumors.
Most new patients are seen within a week, much faster than major academic centers.
