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- Staging uses numbers and letters to describe how far the cancer has spread: If the nodule appears cancerous (malignant), physicians gather information to confirm the cancer and understand its type, size, location and spread. Based on this information, the lung cancer is diagnosed and then assigned a stage using numbers and the letters T, N and M—size of the primary tumor (T), the number and location of regional lymph nodes (N), and the presence or absence of metastasis (M).
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- Physicians need information before starting treatment: Physicians need to know exactly how far the cancer has spread, which lymph nodes are involved and if there are any biomarkers, to be able to recommend the most appropriate treatment. People should work closely with their care team to learn what to expect based on their cancer, and to understand the risks and benefits associated with each care decision.
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- New resources are available: Through this campaign, resources are available to provide more information about lung nodules at Lung.org/lung-nodules and staging at Lung.org/staging In addition, the American Lung Association’s Lung Helpline is staffed with a Lung Cancer Patient Navigator to help answer any questions a person or their family may have.
“There is hope for each stage of lung cancer,” says Wimmer. “By understanding the different stages and the diagnosis process, individuals can have greater control of their care.” (StatePoint)
