Lung cancer is staged based on theTNM system:
Stage 2 is divided into stages 2A and 2B.
Stage 2B is divided into three possible designations.
As the disease progresses, though, symptoms may arise while it’s still in stage 2.
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The symptoms oflung cancer in womenmay differ from men, and symptoms innon-smokersmay differ from current or former smokers.
Treatment
Treatment options for stage 2 lung cancer often include a combination of therapies.
Surgery
Surgery is associated with the greatest likelihood of long-term survival after your diagnosis.
During VATS, part of the lung may be removed through small incisions in the chest wall.
VATS procedures may result in a shorter hospital stay and less post-operative pain.
Which procedure your healthcare provider recommends depends on where your tumor is located and your general state of health.
Other techniques such asproton beam therapyare being evaluated for stage 2 disease.
Getting appropriate treatment is the key to improving your chances ofremission.
Discuss all your options with your healthcare provider and be hopeful.
Treatments are improving every day.
If a lung cancer recurs, further options are available for treatment.
These may include radiation with or without chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy medications.
Coping
Studies suggest that learning about your disease can improve your outcome.Ask questions.
Learn about clinical trials that might be appropriate for you.
This is a time to allow others to help you.
Putting effort into these can give you control of your cancer journey.
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