Thoracic medical oncology treats cancers of the lung, the pleura (the lining around the lungs) and the chest. Lung cancer is closely linked with smoking, but it also occurs in non-smokers, and air pollution and other exposures play a role. Symptoms include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, breathlessness, chest pain, hoarseness and weight loss.

Diagnosis involves a chest X-ray or CT scan and a biopsy. The tissue is then tested for the cell type and for molecular features that may open the way to targeted treatment. The stage decides whether surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a combination is best.

Fluid around the lung can cause breathlessness and may be drained. Stopping tobacco use at any stage improves outcomes and the effect of treatment.

Thoracic medical oncology services at Apex include:

• Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Staging: CT scans, biopsy and laboratory tests that confirm the cell type and extent of disease before treatment starts.
• Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer: Drug regimens given before or after surgery, or as the main treatment for advanced disease, with monitoring of blood counts and kidney function.
• Management of Fluid Around the Lung: Drainage of fluid to relieve breathlessness and testing of the fluid for cancer cells, with further steps if the fluid returns.
• Tobacco Cessation Advice: Counselling and support for quitting, which improves recovery, lowers infection risk and helps treatment work more effectively.