Lung Cancer Specialist

Lung cancer is a serious disease that develops when abnormal cells grow in the lungs. The most common form of lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer, which is classified based on how the cancer cells appear under a microscope.

Small cell lung cancer is most common in people with a heavy smoking history, although this type is less common than non-small cell cancer.
Your risk of lung cancer increases if you have a family history of the disease or if you smoke. Your lung cancer risk also increases if you’re frequently exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke, asbestos, or other toxins.

In the earliest stages of lung cancer, you might not have any noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, you can develop issues like:

• Chest pain
• Hoarseness
• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath

It’s also common to cough up blood, even in small amounts, as the cancer becomes more advanced.

Early detection can improve treatment options and may lead to better outcomes for many patients. If you have symptoms of lung cancer or are at increased risk, it's important to schedule a diagnostic evaluation.

Lung cancer often causes no symptoms in its earliest, most treatable stages, which is why screening matters for people at higher risk. Current guidelines recommend annual low-dose CT (LDCT) screening for adults with a significant smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. Ask your Wellness Oncology & Hematology provider whether low-dose CT screening is appropriate for you.

To confirm or rule out a lung cancer diagnosis, you’ll need to undergo imaging tests like a chest X-ray or CT scan that help identify abnormal masses in your lungs. The staff at Wellness Oncology & Hematology will also test samples of the fluids that you cough up.

In some cases, a biopsy will be necessary. This procedure involves analyzing tissue samples your doctor takes from your lungs to identify abnormal or cancerous cells.

Lung cancer treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as your overall health and treatment goals. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may focus on curing the cancer, reducing the risk of recurrence, controlling disease progression, or managing symptoms.

In many cases, medications, radiation, and chemotherapy are combined to treat lung cancer. If your cancer is advanced, you’ll probably need surgery to remove a portion of your lung to prevent the cancer from spreading.

Chemotherapy and infusion treatments are available on site at both the West Hills and Tarzana offices, allowing many patients to complete much of their treatment without traveling to a separate facility.

Your Wellness Oncology & Hematology doctor also works with lung specialists to protect your breathing and support the best possible care throughout your cancer treatment.
If you have symptoms of lung cancer and need an accurate diagnosis, schedule a consultation today at the Wellness Oncology & Hematology office nearest you by phone or by using the online booking feature.

Call the West Hills office at 818-346-1773 or the Tarzana office at 818-705-3900 to schedule your consultation.

Call the West Hills office at 818-346-1773 or the Tarzana office at 818-705-3900 to schedule your consultation.