Lung cancer

Signs of lung cancer tend to not show up until the disease is in later stages, but early detection is still possible with screenings and diagnostic tests. Talk to your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

• A new, chronic cough or a cough that doesn't go away
• Chest pain that is worse with deep breathing or coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Fatigue
• Hoarseness
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

The goal of lung cancer screening is to identify cancer in its earliest stages when it is more treatable and potentially even curable. Early lung cancer screening is often performed when you are not symptomatic and have a high risk of developing lung cancer.

Our lung cancer specialists use low-dose computerized tomography (LDCT) scans to screen for lung cancer. These scans are similar to CT scans, but use a lower dose of radiation to create images of the lungs.

At Henrico Doctors' Hospital, we use advanced minimally invasive technology to evaluate lung nodules in the earliest stages. Despite advances in screening, it cannot prevent all lung cancer-related deaths. You may qualify for a screening if you:

• Are between 50 and 80 years old
• Have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history (1 pack a day for 20 years or 2 packs a day for 10 years) and are a current smoker, or have quit within the past 15 years
  

Following your initial exam, our lung cancer specialists may recommend a number of tests to accurately determine the type and stage of your cancer. We use a wide range of advanced technologies and various medical imaging tests to help you get a timey diagnosis.

Our diagnostic services include:

• Bronchoscopy
• Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)
• Esophageal ultrasound (EUS)
• Image-guided needle biopsy and needle aspiration
• LDCT scans
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Mediastinoscopy/mediastinotomy
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Thoracentesis
• Thoracic imaging

At LewisGale Medical Center, we offer robotic bronchoscopy for lung biopsies and detecting cancer at an earlier stage.

When lung cancer is detected early, our doctors have a better chance of successfully treating your cancer. Our experienced team of oncologists treat new and recurring lung, esophageal, pleural, mediastinal and chest wall tumors with minimally invasive technology and techniques.

Our treatments for lung cancer include:

• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Robot-assisted surgery
  
• Stereotactic radiosurgery
• Thoracotomy
• Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)

We are proud to offer compassionate lung cancer support services, including a lung cancer support group and a smoking cessation program.

On-site support group

The goal of our lung cancer support group is to provide you with educational resources and a cancer community to stand with you on your journey to recovery. Our support group meets at 5:00pm on the second Tuesday of every month at Henrico Doctors' Hospital.

Smoking cessation program

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to stop smoking. We recognize that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to quitting smoking, but we are here to help you.

Our smoking cessation program can help you stop smoking for good in just seven weeks. Participants in our program are six times more likely to be smoke-free one year after starting our program than those who try to quit on their own. Up to 60% of participants report being smoke-free by the end of the program when used in combination with smoking cessation medications.

Our American Lung Association Freedom from Smoking program is offered periodically throughout the year and includes ample group interaction, consisting of eight sessions over seven weeks. There is a one-time $60 fee due at registration on your first day.

Our multispecialty lung cancer team is comprised of oncologists, radiation technicians, thoracic surgeons and pulmonary care specialists. These professionals collaborate to create a comprehensive, treatment and recovery plan tailored to your specific health needs.

We also offer an extended network of care resources, including:

• Dietitians who can address your changing nutritional needs as you recover from surgery and pursue follow-up treatments
• Nurse navigators who assists with all aspects of your care
  
• Physical therapists to help you recover and rebuild strength
• Support groups to guide you through your cancer journey

Lung cancer nurse navigators

When you choose one of our hospitals for your lung cancer treatment, you will be paired with an experienced nurse navigator who will offer guidance and support to both you and your family. Your nurse navigator is specially trained to answer your questions, help you make informed health decisions and serve as a resource for you throughout your care journey.

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (844) 482-4812.