LOC at Chelsea
102 Sydney Street SW3 6NJ London
Non-small cell lung cancer
This is the most common type of lung cancer. If you are diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, you will have immediate access to our world-leading consultants and state-of-the-art hospitals
About non-small cell lung cancer
There are three types of non-small cell lung cancer.
- adenocarcinoma
- squamous cell cancer
- large-cell carcinoma.
Each type of lung cancer behaves differently and responds to treatment in different ways. At HCA UK our network of world-leading consultants are experts at treating all forms of lung cancer. Your consultant will talk you through your diagnosis and the best treatment options for you to help you make an informed decision about your care.
Types of non-small cell lung cancer
Adenocarcinoma
Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer. It develops from mucus-producing cells that line the airways.
Squamous cell cancer
Squamous cell cancer develops in the cells that line the airways. It is usually caused by smoking, but even non-smokers can get it.
Large cell carcinoma
Large cell carcinoma is so called because of how the cancer cells look when examined under a microscope.
Undifferentiated non-small cell lung cancer
If your cancer cells look very underdeveloped under the microscope, your consultant may not be able to tell which type of non-small cell lung cancer you have.
Need to know
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.
Our Non-small cell lung cancer locations
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.