When your doctor talked with you about your lung cancer, it might have been difficult to absorb all the details, terms and phrases. It’s normal for information to feel overwhelming. And it is important for you to be familiar with the types and stages of lung cancer, and how certain treatments can help.
There are two most common types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The terms ‘small’ and ‘non–small’ refer to the size of the cells found in the tumour and not the size of the tumour itself. For more information about SCLC, click here
In some cases, the earlier lung cancer is detected, the better the prognosis.
If you feel you’re at a higher risk, it’s a good idea to have routine check-ups with your doctor. Your doctor can determine if screening is needed based on the symptoms you might be experiencing.
In their 2016 guidelines, the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommended lung cancer screening every year up to three consecutive years for people who meet the following criteria:
- Are between 55 and 74 years old with at least a 30 pack-year smoking history and
- Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years
A pack year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year. For example, a person could have a 30 pack-year history by smoking one pack a day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years.
These recommendations do not apply to adults who previously had lung cancer, or signs or symptoms of lung cancer.
Screening for Lung Cancer
The recommended screening method for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography (CT) in a setting that has access to experts in early diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
In people at higher risk, if lung cancer is discovered at an early stage before symptoms appear, the response to treatment may be better. This is why it’s extremely important to have an open, honest conversation with your doctor about your smoking history or any other factors that might put you at risk for lung cancer.
If you are concerned about lung cancer, discuss screening with your doctor. Ask your health professional or contact your provincial cancer association to find out about lung cancer screening in your area.
Hospitals and clinics across the country do have teams and the expertise to conduct lung cancer screening, so speak to your family physician to get a referral, or call your provincial cancer association to help identify a centre with expertise.
Some hospitals (e.g., William Osler) also run their own lung cancer screening program. Visit
