Best Lung Cancer Treatments in Texas

Lung cancer remains one of the most common and challenging diseases in the United States. For patients in Texas, the importance of finding expert care cannot be overstated.

This blog post explores the essentials of lung cancer, its causes, and the effective treatment options available for it. It also highlights the expert care provided by Austin Pulmonary Consultants, led by board-certified specialists, as your trusted partner in navigating this complex condition.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells in one or both lungs grow out of control, forming masses known as tumors. These tumors can interfere with the lung’s ability to function, affecting breathing and oxygen distribution in the body.

This disease is classified into two main types:

  • Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common form of lung cancer, constituting approximately 85% of cases.
  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This is a less common but more aggressive form of the disease.

Understanding the type of lung cancer is crucial, as it determines the best course of treatment.

Causes of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer can develop due to several risk factors. The primary contributors include:

  1. Smoking: Tobacco use remains the leading cause of lung cancer. Cigarette smoking accounts for as much as 80% of lung cancer deaths.
  1. Secondhand Smoke: Even non-smokers can develop lung cancer when exposed to secondhand smoke.
  1. Radon Exposure: This radioactive gas, often found in homes, can significantly increase lung cancer risk.
  1. Occupational Hazards: Chemicals such as asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust contribute to workplace exposure risks.
  1. Family History: A genetic predisposition can make some individuals more vulnerable.

Avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy life and addressing environmental risks are key ways to decrease the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Best Lung Cancer Treatments in Texas

The treatment approach for lung cancer depends on the type, stage, and particular characteristics of the disease. Texas offers some of the most advanced care options for this condition. Below are the most commonly recommended treatments and how they work:

Surgery

Surgery can be used to remove cancerous tissue, especially in early-stage lung cancer. The procedure typically involves one of the following methods:

  • Wedge Resection: Removes a small portion of the lung containing the tumor.
  • Lobectomy: This involves the removal of one lobe of the lung.
  • Pneumonectomy: Removes an entire lung when required.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to destroy the cancer cells. Radiation therapy can serve as either a primary or supplementary treatment following surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to halt or slow the multiplication of cancerous cells. It is often used to treat various lung cancer stages and is particularly effective in treating SCLC.

Immunotherapy

This advanced treatment boosts the patient’s immune system to identify and fight cancer cells. It has shown significant progress in treating advanced-stage NSCLC.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy focuses on specific genetic mutations within cancer cells. They provide a highly personalized approach, commonly used when traditional treatments prove ineffective.

Expert Care at Austin Pulmonary Consultants

Austin Pulmonary Consultants stands out as a beacon of hope for lung cancer patients in Texas. Our team of board-certified pulmonologists specializes in delivering advanced, individualized care to diagnose, treat, and manage lung cancer effectively.

Here is what makes us your trusted partner in lung cancer treatment:

  • Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We utilize state-of-the-art technology to accurately diagnose and evaluate lung cancer at every stage.
  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Since no two patients are the same, nor are their treatments, we develop tailored plans based on your unique diagnosis and preferences.
  • Comprehensive Support: Our team is committed to your health, from your initial consultation to ongoing care and follow-ups.

When you choose Austin Pulmonary Consultants, you not only gain access to compassionate care and cutting-edge treatments, but also a community dedicated to your recovery.

Best Lung Cancer Treatments in Austin, Texas

Facing lung cancer is no easy task, but with access to the right team and treatment, there is hope. If you or a loved one are seeking expert lung cancer treatment, trust our board-certified specialists at Austin Pulmonary Consultants. We will guide you through your treatment options and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Scheduling an appointment at Austin Pulmonary Consultants is easy. Call us at the location nearest to you in Cedar Park, South Austin, or North Austin. Or, if you prefer, complete and submit our online Request an Appointment form, and we will promptly contact you.

Begin your path to better lung health and personalized care by contacting Austin Pulmonary Consultants today.