LUNG CANCER
Treatment Options
If found early 65% of lung cancer cases can be cured entirely.±
There are several treatment options for lung cancer. The type of treatment patients receive will depend on a variety of factors such as the type of lung cancer, its stage and your overall health.
Surgery
Surgery may be effective for treatment of stage I-III in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) . There are several types of surgery for lung cancer, and these can be performed using different techniques.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be used to treat stages I-IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC). Chemotherapy may be used to destroy or control growth of cancer in the body. Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy may also be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment.
Radiation therapy
Radiation Therapy treats lung cancer by using high-energy x-ray beams to destroy cancer tissue. Radiation therapy is focused directly on the tumour and can be used alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Targeted therapy
Some people have genetic differences which can be targeted by drug treatment. The treatment attacks specific features of cancer cells, known as molecular targets, to stop the cancer growing and spreading. Targeted therapies will not work for everyone.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy can be used to treat some forms of NSCLC. Immunotherapy uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer by boosting its ability to recognise and destroy cancer cells.
How to get a free screening?
If you’re concerned about your risk of lung cancer, talk to your GP. Your GP can review your lung health and assess your eligibility for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program. Getting checked can provide peace of mind and help you take a more active role in your health.¹
References
±https://www.health.gov.au/ourwork/nlcsp/about
1. https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/research-data/data-and-statistics/cancer-australia-statistics (accessed 3/3/26)