Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. Its pervasive impact on global health has made it crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment methodologies to evolve and prioritize early detection.

Cancer occurs when the body’s cells grow without check and form tumorous lumps. When these cancer cells start growing in the lungs, it is called lung cancer. 

Lung cancer can be of two types:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) - This is the most common form of lung cancer, seen in 80% to 85% of lung cancer cases. This type of cancer is usually slower to grow and spread to other body parts.
• Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) - This is a more aggressive form of lung cancer. It tends to grow and spread to other body parts quicker than NSCLC. SCLC is closely linked to cigarette smoking. 

The risk for lung cancer increases with a history of smoking and exposure to environmental pollutants. Additionally, if someone in your family has lung cancer, it increases your risk of developing the disease.

Recognizing and analyzing these factors lays the foundation for informed discussions, enabling a more precise assessment of your risk levels.

Lung cancer is a stealthy disease and often manifests its presence through subtle yet persistent signs. Understanding these symptoms is vital for early detection and prompt intervention.

• Chronic cough that lingers and may sometimes be mistaken for a benign respiratory issue
• Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath, notably during routine activities
• Aching or sharp pains in the chest that may worsen during deep breathing or coughing
• Significant and unexplained weight loss over a short period
• Persistent tiredness or lack of energy, not alleviated by rest
• Recurring respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms persistently, prompt medical evaluation is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention. Early detection of lung cancer means more treatment options are available, increasing the chance of a successful outcome.

In the ever-evolving landscape of lung cancer diagnostics, the following methods have enabled early detection and informed treatment decisions.

Chest X-rays serve as the initial tool to assess lung health, capturing a broad view of the chest cavity. While X-rays help detect abnormalities, they may lack the level of detail needed for precise diagnosis. They are often followed by more detailed examinations.

CT scans are a cornerstone of lung cancer diagnostics, offering detailed images that aid in identifying and staging the disease's extent. These scans can be instrumental in shaping treatment plans, providing clinicians with a comprehensive view of the tumor's size, location, and potential spread.

Tissue biopsies, whether through needle aspirations or bronchoscopies, help the diagnostic process by confirming the specific type of lung cancer. Beyond identification, biopsy results guide clinicians in formulating precise treatment strategies, taking into account the unique characteristics of the cancer.

PET scans help highlight areas of increased metabolic activity, offering insights into the extent of cancer spread. They provide a more thorough understanding of the disease, aiding treatment decisions.

Liquid biopsies, such as the ones performed at RGCC, are a pioneering technique to use a simple blood test for detecting genetic mutations and gene and protein expression in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) that fuel the cancer’s growth. Beyond traditional methods, liquid biopsies enable practitioners to unravel the genomic intricacies of the cancer, paving the way for targeted, personalized treatment approaches.

At RGCC, our scientists are pioneers in personalized cancer care, transcending traditional diagnostics. Our focus extends beyond identification and diagnosis to honing in on tailoring treatments to the unique genetic profiles of individual patients.

Our tests provide insight into genetic mutations and gene and protein expression profile that form the blueprint of each patient's cancer. These insights offer crucial information for treatment decisions. 

Compared to traditional cancer diagnosis and care techniques, our tests at RGCC showcase efficiency, precision, and quick turnaround times. We offer in-depth genetic insights for more accurate disease management, improving the agility of treatment decisions. 

Our CTC tests and Onconomics panels are revolutionary in their ability to delve into the specific characteristics of a patient’s cancer to help decipher treatment options appropriate for them. 

Additionally, our specialized tests utilize state-of-the-art molecular biology and artificial neural networks to isolate and analyze over 90 genes for early cancer screening. The Onco-D-Clare test is a true testament to our commitment to cutting-edge cancer diagnostics. 

It can be used by healthy people without any cancer diagnosis to keep a check on their cancer-free status. This is especially useful for those who are at risk of lung cancer due to family history or other factors.

Discover groundbreaking testing solutions pioneered by RGCC, which throw light on the path toward better lung health. We offer a paradigm shift in cancer care technologies and protocols.

Our state-of-the-art research centers employ advanced tests and protocols to offer a comprehensive yet personalized view of each patient’s genetics, physiology, and immune profiles. 

Our mission is to empower patients with unique insights into their cancer biology, guiding them toward success in their cancer journey.

Contact us today to start your journey to empowering information for your cancer treatment by contacting us online.