If you experience lung problems, our expert radiologists can carry out a lung biopsy to help diagnose your condition
Lung cancer
Cancer that begins in the lungs is called primary lung cancer, and is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK. If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, you will have immediate access to our world-leading consultants and state-of-the-art hospitals
Types of lung cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer
This is the most common form of lung cancer and can be divided into three main types; adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large-cell carcinoma.
Small cell lung cancer
Small cell lung cancer is a fast growing type of lung cancer that occurs more frequently in men than women. In the majority of cases, is the result of smoking.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a less common type of cancer that usually starts in the pleura, which is the lining that covers the lungs.
Secondary lung cancer
Secondary lung cancer is when cancer cells have spread to the lungs from a cancer that started somewhere else in the body.
Symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer may include:
- a persistent cough
- coughing up mucus or blood
- shortness of breath
- loss of appetite
- chest pain
- unexplained weight loss
- Having any of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have lung cancer. However, it is important that you visit your GP if you have any of these symptoms so that a referral and diagnosis can be made. Early detection is crucial in order to increase the chance of treatment being successful.
We offer a number of investigations and tests to confirm a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer, including:
- a physical examination
- blood tests
- scans, such as X-rays, MRI, CT and PET-CT
- biopsy
- If these tests suggest you may have lung cancer, your consultant will recommend a biopsy. This is when a sample of tissue is taken for examination under a microscope.
Your consultant will talk you through your treatment options to help you make an informed decision about your care. Treatment may include:
- surgery
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy
- immunotherapy
- We treat every patient on an individual basis. Your treatment will depend on the type of cancer you have and how advanced it is, as well as your age and general health. At HCA UK you will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team, including expert consultants, clinical nurse specialists and supportive therapists including psychologists who can help you with your emotional wellbeing. This team will work together to create a treatment plan tailored to your medical needs.
Lung cancer tests & scans
Lung biopsy
Full Lung Function Test
Pulmonary function test. A breathing test that measures how well your lungs are working.
Lung volume tests
From complex thoracic surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional respiratory care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Our Lung cancer locations
The Christie Private Care
Wilmslow Road M20 4BX Manchester
LOC at Chelsea
102 Sydney Street SW3 6NJ London
LOC at The Harley Street Clinic
81-83 Harley Street W1G 8PP London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.