Lung Cancer Treatment in Delhi

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer arises when lung cells undergo abnormal mutations and start to grow uncontrollably. These cells can be classified as benign (non-cancerous), which do not invade nearby tissues or spread throughout the body, or malignant (cancerous), which can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to other areas. A biopsy is required to diagnose any suspicious tumours detected through imaging.

Types of Lung Cancer

There are two primary types of lung cancer:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma
  • Adenocarcinoma
  • Bronchoalveolar Carcinoma
  • Large Cell Undifferentiated Carcinoma
• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

Stages of Lung Cancer

Treatment plans for lung cancer are based on staging, which is determined by factors such as:

• Size
• Location
• Metastasis

Lung cancer progresses through the following stages:

• Stage 1: The cancer is localised to the lung and has not spread to other organs or lymph nodes. Surgery is the primary recommended treatment at this stage.
• Stage 2: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. The preferred treatment involves surgery followed by adjuvant therapy.
• Stage 3: The cancer has metastasized to lymph nodes in the mediastinal area. In this stage, adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation may be recommended both before and after surgery. Customised therapy may also be considered after surgery.
• Stage 4 (Metastatic):The cancer has spread beyond the lung to distant organs. At this advanced stage, treatment typically focuses on non-surgical options, including palliative chemoradiation and targeted therapies.

Lung Cancer Diagnosis in Delhi

The process of diagnosing lung cancer varies for each patient and may involve the following tests:

Blood Tests

Several blood tests are performed to assist in establishing a diagnosis and to inform the treatment plan.

Imaging Studies

To obtain a comprehensive view of the cancer, your doctor may recommend various imaging techniques, such as:

• Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT)
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Lung Biopsy

If imaging or screening tests suggest a tumour, a biopsy will be required. This procedure involves taking a small sample of cells from the abnormal tissue, often guided by imaging techniques based on the tumour's location.

Treatment Options Available

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

Patients diagnosed with small cell lung cancer often present at an advanced stage where the cancer has already spread beyond the lungs. Treatment primarily revolves around chemotherapy, as surgical options are typically limited to very early-stage cases that lack lymph node involvement or distant metastasis. Radiation therapy may also play a role in managing SCLC.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

For those with non-small cell lung cancer, treatment usually involves a combination of approaches, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies. Early detection is crucial, as it often allows for surgical intervention, which is associated with the best long-term outcomes.

Treatment by Stage of Disease

Stage I NSCLC

In stage I, the primary treatment is typically surgical. Options include:

• Lobectomy: The removal of a lung lobe; the right lung has three lobes, while the left has two. The affected lobe, along with nearby lymph nodes, is excised for analysis.
• Segmentectomy or Wedge Resection: These less common procedures are reserved for very small tumours or patients with other health issues that make lobectomy risky.
• Pneumonectomy: This procedure removes an entire lung and is considered only when a lobectomy cannot achieve complete tumour removal. Surgeons may use techniques like sleeve resection to avoid this when possible.

After surgery, the excised tissue is analysed for cancer cells at the margins, which could indicate residual disease. If cancer is detected, a second surgery may be needed, often followed by chemotherapy or radiation, especially for patients at a higher risk of recurrence. Genetic testing can also play a role in guiding post-surgical treatment. The Best Thoracic Surgeon in India provides advanced care to support such treatment plans.

Non-Surgical Options for Stage I NSCLC

For patients unable to undergo surgery due to significant health issues, options like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) or other radiation techniques may be explored. Affected lymph nodes will be removed when necessary, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may be considered for small tumours located in the outer lung.

Stage II NSCLC

Patients with stage II NSCLC who can have surgery typically undergo lobectomy or sleeve resection, with pneumonectomy considered as needed. Analysing the excised tissue aids in determining subsequent treatment steps.

Even if no cancer cells are found at the margins, postoperative chemotherapy is usually advised to eliminate any residual cells. If surgery is not an option due to serious medical conditions, radiation therapy may serve as the primary treatment modality.

Stage III NSCLC

• Stage IIIA NSCLC:Treatment often involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and possibly surgery. Multidisciplinary teams evaluate treatment options based on tumour characteristics and the patient’s overall health. Neoadjuvant Therapy (NACT) may precede surgery if the cancer responds favourably.
• Stage IIIB NSCLC:At this stage, cancer may have spread to lymph nodes near the opposite lung or neck, or invaded critical structures in the chest, making complete surgical removal impossible. Most patients at this stage are not candidates for surgery and may receive a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. If the disease remains stable, some may qualify for immunotherapy.

Stage IV NSCLC

In stage IV, lung cancer has spread beyond the chest and is considered incurable. However, management strategies such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and radiation can still improve life expectancy and enhance quality of life by alleviating symptoms.

Why Choose Dr Belal Bin Asaf for Lung Cancer Treatment in Delhi?

Dr. Belal Bin Asaf is a highly skilled lung cancer specialist committed to delivering comprehensive care to his patients. He provides a wide range of services, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, all in one accessible location. He prioritises patient comfort and dignity, ensuring that your concerns are heard and addressed throughout your treatment journey. With a strong history of positive outcomes, Dr. Asaf is dedicated to helping patients achieve the best results possible. For compassionate and expert lung cancer care in Delhi, Dr. Belal Bin Asaf stands out as an excellent choice.

Cost of Lung Cancer Treatment in Delhi

In Delhi, lung cancer treatment costs can range from approximately ₹1,05,000 to ₹26,25,000, reflecting a significant variation influenced by several factors:

• Type of Treatment: Costs differ based on whether treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies.
• Stage of Cancer: Advanced stages typically require more extensive and prolonged treatment, leading to higher costs.
• Choice of Hospital: Each hospital or treatment centre has its own pricing structure, influenced by the facilities and services they provide.
• Consultation Fees: Initial consultations with oncologists contribute to the overall treatment expenses.
• Diagnostic Tests: Essential tests, including biopsies and imaging scans, can increase total costs.
• Health Insurance: The extent of coverage from health insurance plans significantly affects out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

Support and Aftercare

• Rehabilitation: After lung cancer treatment, rehabilitation is crucial for helping patients rebuild their strength. This may include:
  • Physical Therapy: Aims to enhance mobility and physical strength.
  • Occupational Therapy: Assists with daily tasks and fosters independence.
• Palliative Care: This type of care focuses on alleviating symptoms and enhancing quality of life, including:
  • Psychological Support: Provides help for emotional and mental well-being.
  • Post-Treatment Monitoring and Support
• Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments are vital for tracking recovery and detecting any potential recurrence early. This usually includes:
  • Imaging Tests: To assess changes in the lungs.
  • Blood Work: To evaluate overall health.