Non-small cell lung cancer | Know Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of all lung cancers. It is a more slow-growing form that often spreads more slowly to other parts of the body.

Understanding non-small cell lung cancer

To help you understand non-small cell lung cancer, we have put together a number of resources to answer common questions. Take a look below to find information on every step of your journey with lung cancer, from diagnosis to remission.

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What is non-small cell lung cancer?

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) starts in the cells that line the airways and lung tissue. Smoking, or exposure to tobacco smoke, is the most common cause.

Symptoms

Symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer usually involve the lungs and airways, but some people may have more general symptoms or even no symptoms at all.

Diagnosis

Several types of tests are used to diagnose non‑small cell lung cancer. These include imaging, biopsies, and laboratory tests, which all help to identify the type of cancer and assess if it has spread.

Staging

Staging describes how far cancer has spread and helps guide treatment decisions. Two systems are commonly used in non-small cell lung cancer: TNM and number staging.

Real-life stories

Discover a collection of real-life stories from patients and caregivers, and hear their journeys and experiences of living with lung cancer. Please do contact us if you would like to share your story.

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Patient story | Duncan Edmonstone

Duncan Edmonstone shares his story with Stage 4 ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer following a sudden brain seizure. He describes his diagnosis, brain surgery, and experience receiving targeted therapy. He now contributes to patient advocacy, using his experience to support others and help drive improvements in cancer care and healthcare systems.

Patient story | Steve Inzerello

Steve Inzerello shares his experience of working in the healthcare industry while navigating an unexpected diagnosis of Stage 3A non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). His story highlights his treatment journey and his focus on maintaining a resilient mindset.

Patient story | Stephanie Kenney

Stephanie shares her journey that began with a persistent post-COVID cough and led to an unexpected diagnosis of Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). As a healthy non-smoker, she describes navigating a sudden advanced-stage cancer diagnosis, receiving treatment with targeted therapy through a clinical trial, and finding support through connecting with other patients and caregivers.

Patient story | Wyatt Davila

Wyatt shares his experience of being diagnosed with Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer, after it was unexpectedly discovered during routine imaging. His story highlights navigating an unexpected diagnosis, undergoing multiple treatments and clinical trials, and finding support and connection through the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer community.