Lung Cancer
While scare tactics are never a great way to present a topic, the fact is that lung cancer is far and away from the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States. And the statistics are still worrisome as 14% of newly diagnosed cancers are lung cancer. But there is hope with the right care. At Charleston Oncology, the team of oncologists and hematologists offer the latest, most effective treatment protocols to combat lung cancer. To learn more, call or fill out the online form for an appointment.
LUNG CANCER IS CHALLENGING. YOUR CARE SHOULDN’T BE.
At Charleston Oncology, we understand that a lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our dedicated team provides personalized, compassionate care using the most advanced treatment options available. Depending on your individual diagnosis, your plan may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or participation in clinical trials that offer access to emerging treatments. Every step of the way, your Charleston Oncology physician works closely with a multidisciplinary team to deliver coordinated, comprehensive care—helping you breathe easier knowing you’re supported by experience, innovation, and hope.
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TYPES AND STAGING OF LUNG CANCER
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): About 85% of lung cancers fall under this category, including subtypes like squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): Makes up about 15% of cases. This aggressive form of lung cancer is most often linked to smoking and may require a combination of therapies.
Lung carcinoid tumors: Rare, accounting for less than 5% of lung cancers.
Staging: Like other cancers, lung cancer is staged from I to IV. Lower-stage cancers are typically more localized and easier to treat, while higher-stage cancers require more complex therapies.
DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At Charleston Oncology, we use advanced imaging and diagnostics, including:
- X-rays and CT scans: To identify suspicious areas and assess the extent of the tumor.
- 16-slice CT scanner: Provides detailed images from multiple angles for precise evaluation.
- Biopsy: Tissue testing to confirm the subtype and characteristics of the cancer.
Through these tests, your oncologist determines the type and stage of lung cancer, which guides your personalized treatment plan.
PERSONALIZED LUNG CANCER TREATMENT PLANS
Lung cancer treatment is highly individualized and depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, your overall health, and your personal goals. At Charleston Oncology, we provide a full spectrum of treatment options:
Surgery: For early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, surgery may be used to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue.
Chemotherapy: Uses medications to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink tumors or afterward to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams target cancer cells. Techniques may be used alone or alongside other treatments to maximize effectiveness.
Targeted Therapy: Medications designed to attack specific molecules in cancer cells, often with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy: Innovative treatments that help your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, offering new hope for certain types of lung cancer.
Clinical Trials: Charleston Oncology participates in trials exploring novel therapies and combination approaches for lung cancer.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY AND INNOVATIVE CARE
Comprehensive lung cancer care requires collaboration. Our medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and support staff work together to provide coordinated, seamless care. We address not just the cancer itself, but your overall well-being—physical, emotional, and psychological—throughout your treatment journey.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Your treatment, your choice—it all starts with understanding your options. At Charleston Oncology, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with expertise, compassion, and support. Schedule a consultation today to explore the care and resources that make Charleston Oncology a trusted name in lung cancer treatment.
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When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt like my whole world stopped. But from the moment I walked into Charleston Oncology, I knew I was in the right hands. The doctors explained everything clearly and made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient — I was part of their family.
Sarah T – Breast Cancer Survivor
What types of lung cancer are there?
Lung cancer mostly falls into two categories:
Non-small cell lung cancer
Approximately 85% of lung cancers fall under this heading. There are several subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
Small cell lung cancer
This cancer accounts for about 15% of lung cancers and is an aggressive form of cancer that’s almost always due to smoking.
There’s a third type called a lung carcinoid tumor, which accounts for less than 5% of all lung cancers.
How is lung cancer diagnosed and staged?
Lung cancer primarily receives diagnosis through imaging, such as X-rays, at first. Typically, if your doctor sees a mass, they order more advanced imaging or send you to a specialist. And that’s where Charleston Oncology comes in. The group of oncologists has the experience and the equipment to zero in on the exact nature of your lung cancer.
For starters, the practice is equipped with a 16-slice CT scanner, which enables them to view the problem area from many different angles to determine the extent of involvement.
If warranted, your doctor may order a biopsy to examine your tissue to figure out which cells the cancer is affecting.
Once your doctor at Charleston Oncology identifies the subtype of lung cancer you’re dealing with, the stage of your cancer, which is essential in figuring out the next steps. Lung cancer is staged like all other cancers, from stage I to stage IV. The lower the number, the easier the cancer is to treat because it’s still localized.
How is lung cancer treated?
When it comes time to treat your lung cancer, your doctor at Charleston Oncology needs to consider many things before recommending a course of action, including:
- Type of lung cancer
- Stage of the cancer
- Your health
- Your goals
With these factors in mind, they recommend a protocol that works best for your unique situation, which may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Targeted drug therapies
- Immunotherapy
- Clinical trials
Often you may benefit from a combination of therapies for maximum effect.
If you’ve received a diagnosis of lung cancer, don’t wait to call Charleston Oncology.
Medical Oncology and Hematology Specialists located in Downtown Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville & Walterboro, SC.
Stories from our Patients
Our patients share their journey with newly diagnosed patients. Here their inspirational stories and advice
during the fight against lung cancer.
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Voted Best In Charleston
Charleston Oncology – Best Oncology Practice
With over 100 years of combined experience, the team of hematologists and oncologists at Charleston Oncology, a department of Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, is proud to be named HealthLinks Magazine’s Best Oncology Practice.
David Ellison, M.D. – Best Oncologist
Honored as Best Oncologist, Dr. David Ellison is a past recipient of the Physician Champion Award from the Roper St. Francis Foundation, founding chairman of the Lowcountry Komen for the Cure Foundation, and principal investigator for several groundbreaking cancer drug clinical trials.
