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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Board Certified Thoracic Oncologists
N. Charleston, Summerville, Walterboro
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
Can lung cancer occur in someone who has never smoked?
Yes — approximately 10-15% of lung cancer cases in the United States occur in people who have never smoked, and that figure is rising. Non-smokers who develop lung cancer are more likely to have certain genetic mutations — such as EGFR mutations or ALK rearrangements — that can be specifically targeted with highly effective oral therapies. Other causes include radon gas exposure, secondhand smoke, air pollution, and genetic factors. A persistent cough, shortness of breath, or unexplained chest symptoms in anyone — smoker or not — always warrants medical evaluation.
What is the difference between small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer?
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the more common type, accounting for about 85% of all lung cancers, and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. NSCLC is the type most likely to harbor targetable genetic mutations. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for the remaining 15% and is characterized by rapid growth and early metastasis. SCLC is highly sensitive to chemotherapy and radiation. Accurate pathologic classification is essential to direct the right treatment.
Why is molecular testing critical for lung cancer?
Molecular testing analyzes the DNA and protein characteristics of your tumor to identify specific mutations or gene fusions that drive cancer growth. In lung cancer, FDA-approved targeted therapies exist for EGFR mutations, ALK and ROS1 rearrangements, KRAS G12C, MET exon 14 skipping, BRAF V600E, RET fusions, NTRK fusions, and others. Identifying these alterations can direct patients to treatments far more effective and better tolerated than chemotherapy alone. At Charleston Oncology, comprehensive molecular profiling is a standard part of the evaluation for all eligible lung cancer patients.
Who should be screened for lung cancer, and how is it done?
Low-dose CT (LDCT) screening is recommended annually for adults aged 50-80 with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. Studies have shown that annual LDCT screening significantly reduces lung cancer mortality in this high-risk population by detecting tumors at an earlier, more treatable stage. If you meet these criteria, discuss lung cancer screening with your primary care provider.
What role does immunotherapy play in lung cancer treatment today?
Immunotherapy — specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors — has become a cornerstone of lung cancer treatment. For patients with advanced NSCLC, pembrolizumab is approved as a first-line treatment (with or without chemotherapy). Immunotherapy is also incorporated into early-stage resectable NSCLC treatment and into standard care for extensive-stage SCLC. Your oncologist will assess your tumor’s PD-L1 expression, molecular profile, and overall health to determine the most appropriate immunotherapy strategy.
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.
Read the Blogs
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Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: What You Should Know
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: What You Should KnowAt Charleston Oncology, we understand that lung cancer is often linked to smoking, but it’s important to remember that lung cancer can affect anyone, even those who have never smoked. As part of Lung Cancer Awareness...
Why Early Detection Matters: Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines By Age
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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.
