Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious forms of cancer worldwide, affecting both men and women. It begins in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body if not diagnosed and treated early. Emirates Hospitals Group offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic, surgical, and medical treatments for lung cancer, provided by a team of the best oncologists in Dubai. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures personalized care, early detection, and access to advanced treatment options.

About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer develops when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. There are two primary types of lung cancer:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of cases. It includes subtypes such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): A more aggressive form of lung cancer, SCLC accounts for around 15% of cases and spreads rapidly.

Lung cancer is particularly dangerous because it often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may have progressed, making early detection critical for successful treatment.

Causes & Symptoms

Lung cancer is caused by genetic mutations in the cells of the lung, leading to uncontrolled growth. Several factors increase the risk of developing lung cancer, including:

• Smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for around 85% of cases. Even exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the risk.
• Exposure to carcinogens: Long-term exposure to harmful chemicals like asbestos, radon gas, and certain workplace pollutants can contribute to the development of lung cancer.
• Family History: Having a close relative with lung cancer can increase the risk.
• Air Pollution: Prolonged exposure to polluted air, especially in urban environments, can also be a factor.

Symptoms of lung cancer vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some common symptoms include:

• Persistent coughing, often with blood
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Hoarseness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Frequent lung infections like pneumonia or bronchitis

These symptoms may not appear until the disease has advanced, so regular screenings are essential for those at risk.

Diagnosis

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we use a combination of advanced diagnostic tools to detect lung cancer as early as possible. These include:

• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans are used to identify tumors and assess their size and location.
• Biopsy: A sample of lung tissue is taken, often through a bronchoscopy or needle biopsy, to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the type of lung cancer.
• Molecular Testing: For some patients, molecular tests are used to identify specific genetic mutations that may influence treatment options, such as targeted therapies.

Early diagnosis is key to improving the chances of successful treatment. Our team of oncologists works closely with patients to ensure prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.

Treatment

Treatment for lung cancer at Emirates Hospitals Group is tailored to the type, stage, and individual health of each patient. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: For early-stage lung cancer, surgery may be performed to remove the tumor or part of the lung. Types of surgery include lobectomy (removal of a lung lobe), pneumonectomy (removal of an entire lung), and segmentectomy (removal of a part of a lung lobe).
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. This is often combined with surgery or used as a primary treatment in patients who cannot undergo surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are administered either orally or intravenously to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: For certain types of lung cancer, targeted therapies are available that specifically attack cancer cells with particular genetic mutations, causing less damage to healthy tissue.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It’s an option for advanced-stage lung cancer and can be combined with other treatments.