Non-small cell lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States, accounting for 15 percent of all cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. The likelihood of survival five years after diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer varies depending on what stage the disease is in when it is found.
Stage 1
In non-small cell lung cancer, Stage 1 is defined by cancer that has not spread to the tiny glands inside and around the lungs called lymph nodes. After five years, 56 percent of patients who had Stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer were still alive.
Stage 2
Stage 2 non-small cell lung cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or has resulted in lung collapse or infection of certain structures in the lungs. The percentage of people reaching a five-year survival mark after being diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer in Stage 2 is 34 percent.
Stage 3
During Stage 3, cancer cells have spread either into the carina or bronchus structures of the lungs as well as the lymph nodes. Ten percent of patients diagnosed with Stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer reached the fifth-year survival anniversary.
Stage 4
If non-small cell lung cancer has spread to another area of the body, such as the lungs, colon or brain, it is classified as Stage 4. Only 2 percent of patients diagnosed in Stage 4 survive for five years.
Considerations
A person's individual prognosis may be determined by other factors, such as their sex, age, general health and the characteristics of the tumor and any spread. An oncologist or cancer doctor is the best source of an accurate, individualized prognosis.
Tags: lung cancer, cell lung cancer, non-small cell, non-small cell lung, cell lung, Stage non-small