Types of Cancer We Treat

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer 
This is the most common form of lung cancer, representing approximately 80 to 85 percent of all lung cancers. There are various types of the disease, such as squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

Adenocarcinoma  
Adenocarcinoma accounts for about 40 percent of lung cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, this type of cancer occurs mainly in current or former smokers and is also the most common type of lung cancer seen in non-smokers. It is more common in women than in men, and it is more likely to occur in younger people than other types of lung cancer. In many patients, Adenocarcinoma tends to grow slower than other types of lung cancer and is more likely to be found before it has spread, although this may vary depending on the individual.

Squamous Cell (Epidermoid) Carcinoma 
About 25 percent to 30 percent of all lung cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. These cancers start in early versions of squamous cells, which are flat cells that line the inside of the airways in the lungs. Smoking is the major risk factor for this type of lung cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is typically found in the central part of the lungs.

Large-Cell Carcinoma 
Large cell carcinoma accounts for about 10 to 15 percent of lung cancers and can grow in any part of the lung. It tends to grow and spread quickly, which can make it harder to treat.

Small-Cell Lung Cancer 
About 10 percent to 15 percent of lung cancers are small cell.

Metastatic Lung Cancer 
People can also be diagnosed with Metastatic lung cancer, which is cancer that has started elsewhere in the body but has spread to the lungs.

For more information about Holy Cross Health's lung cancer services, call 855-HCH-HOPE.