Overview
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer develops when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. These cancer cells can invade surrounding lung tissue and, if left untreated, may spread to other parts of the body. Lung cancer is broadly classified into non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), with treatment depending on the type, stage, location of the tumour, and overall health of the patient.
At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, we provide the most advanced and best lung cancer treatment in Kerala, leveraging a multidisciplinary team comprising medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, pulmonology, radiology, pathology, and critical care. Our emphasis on early detection, accurate staging, and tailored treatment plans aims to enhance outcomes for lung cancer patients.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer may not produce noticeable symptoms during its early stages. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:
- Persistent cough that does not improve
- A change in an existing chronic cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain, particularly while coughing or breathing
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Wheezing or persistent hoarseness
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Persistent tiredness or weakness
Persistent or unexplained respiratory symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor, particularly in people with known risk factors for lung cancer.
Causes & Risk Factors of Lung Cancer
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer, including:
- Smoking – Cigarette and other forms of tobacco smoking are major risk factors for lung cancer.
- Second-hand smoke – Regular exposure to tobacco smoke can increase lung cancer risk even among non-smokers.
- Occupational exposure – Long-term exposure to certain substances such as asbestos and other carcinogens may increase risk.
- Air pollution – Prolonged exposure to polluted air can contribute to the development of lung cancer.
- Family history – People with a family history of lung cancer may have an increased risk.
- Previous radiation exposure – Radiation therapy involving the chest for another condition may increase the risk in some patients.
Importantly, lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked, making evaluation of persistent symptoms essential.
Treatment
At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, the best lung cancer treatment is planned according to the type and stage of cancer, molecular characteristics of the tumour, and the patient’s overall condition.
Surgery for Lung Cancer
Surgery might be advised for certain patients with localized lung cancer if the tumor can be safely excised. The procedure may include removing the tumor plus part or all of the involved lung tissue, depending on its location and extent.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves using anti-cancer drugs to eliminate cancer cells. It can be given before surgery to reduce the tumour size, after surgery to lower the chance of recurrence, or as the main treatment for advanced lung cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy employs precisely focused high-energy radiation to eliminate cancer cells. It can be used alone or combined with surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and type of lung cancer.
Targeted Therapy
Some lung cancers have unique genetic or molecular changes that can be treated with specialized medicines. Molecular testing of the tumour can assist oncologists in deciding if targeted therapy is suitable for a patient.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the immune system identify and target cancer cells. It might be suggested for certain patients with advanced or recurrent lung cancer, depending on tumor features and other clinical considerations.
At Dr. KMC Hospital, our multidisciplinary approach ensures that each patient’s lung cancer treatment is individually planned, combining appropriate therapies to achieve effective cancer control while maintaining quality of life.
Best Lung Cancer Treatment Specialists in Kerala
Our Doctors
Our Department of Oncology includes experienced specialists in medical, surgical, and radiation oncology who work together to provide comprehensive lung cancer care. At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, our oncology team collaborates with pulmonologists, radiologists, pathologists, critical care specialists, and others to deliver accurate diagnosis, staging, personalized treatment, and continuous follow-up for each patient’s cancer journey.
Dr. M. V. Pillai
Dr. Sarah J. Easaw
Dr. Nidhun V. Ashok
Dr. John Thomas
Dr. Boaz Vincent
Dr. Gurukeerthi. B
FAQ
Lung cancer assessment often includes chest imaging techniques like CT scans, PET scans, bronchoscopy, and biopsy. A biopsy provides tissue for analysis to identify the cancer type, while further tests can help determine its stage and molecular features.
Certain lung cancers can be effectively treated, especially when identified early before the disease spreads. Treatment outcomes vary based on the cancer type, stage, tumor features, overall health, and how well the patient responds to therapy.
Yes. While smoking is a significant risk factor, lung cancer can develop in individuals who have never smoked. Additional factors like second-hand smoke, environmental or workplace exposures, genetics, and air pollution can also increase the risk.
Surgery is typically reserved for specific patients with localized cancer. Based on the cancer type and stage, treatment options such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or their combinations may be suggested.
Certain lung cancers possess specific molecular alterations that can be targeted using specialized medicines. Performing tumor testing enables oncologists to choose more personalized treatments for patients who are eligible.
Best Lung Cancer Treatment Hospital in Kerala
Why Choose Dr. KMC Hospital for Lung Cancer Treatment?
Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences provides comprehensive and best Lung cancer treatment in Kerala through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates various cancer specialties. Their services include diagnosis, staging, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and follow-up care, all tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
Choosing Dr. KMC Hospital in Chengannur provides access to an experienced oncology team and advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. Our focus is on accurate diagnosis, personalised cancer treatment, coordinated multidisciplinary care, and supporting patients throughout treatment and recovery.
Enquiry
Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences offers advanced and best lung cancer treatment in Kerala, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.