Lung Cancer

Primary lung cancer starts in the cells of the lung.

The 2 main types of lung cancer are:

  • Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): the most common type of lung cancer. It grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer.
  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): grows quickly and often spreads to distant parts of the body.

Each type of lung cancer behaves quite differently, so they are treated differently.

About this Cancer

Statistics

  • According to the Canadian Cancer Statistics 2025, it is estimated that around 32,900 Canadians will be diagnosed with lung cancer, of which 15,400 of them are men and 17,500 of them are women. 
  • As for death rates, 19,400 individuals will die from lung and bronchus cancer, of which 10,100 are men and 9,300 are women. Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer mortality and it is estimated to represent more than 1 in 5 cancer deaths in Canada in 2025.

Source: Canadian Cancer Statistics 2025

Symptoms

Lung cancer symptoms often do not appear in the early stages but develop as the condition progresses:

  • A new cough that does not seem to go away
  • Coughing up blood
  • Persistent breathlessness
  • Chest pain
  • Unexplained weight loss and decreased appetite
  • Hoarseness, and wheezing

For more information, check out Mayo Clinic. 

Risk Factors

Risk factors for lung cancer include:

  • Smoking 
  • Exposure to radon gas (a naturally occurring gas that can accumulate in homes).
  • Asbestos exposure (shipyards, mines, construction, etc.).
  • Occupational exposure to chemicals (mining, construction, and manufacturing)
  • Outdoor air pollution 
  • Family or personal history of lung cancer
  • History of chronic lung diseases (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or tuberculosis)

For more information, check out the Canadian Cancer Society.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis methods for lung cancer include:

  • Imaging tests, including X-ray, MRI, CT and PET scans
  • Sputum cytology: Examination of mucus (sputum) coughed up from the lungs to look for cancer cells.
  • Biopsy

For more information, check out the Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

Treatment options for lung cancer include:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Stereotactic body radiotherapy
  • Targeted therapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Palliative care

For more information, check out the Mayo Clinic.

Stories from Survivors

Resources

Lung Cancer Groups

Canada

  • The Canadian Lung Association is the “leading organization in Canada working to promote lung health and prevent and manage lung disease. We do this by funding vital research, pushing for improved treatments, smarter policies, or supporting patients in managing their health.”Learn more at lung.ca
  • Lung Cancer Canada is a “national charitable organization that serves as Canada’s leading resource for lung cancer education, patient support, research and advocacy. Based in Toronto, Ontario, Lung Cancer Canada has a wide reach that includes both regional and pan-Canadian initiatives. Lung Cancer Canada is a member of the Global Lung Cancer Coalition and is the only organization in Canada focused exclusively on lung cancer.” Learn more at lungcancercanada.ca
  • Lung Health Foundation: “At the Lung Health Foundation, our unwavering commitment is to support and empower individuals living with lung disease across Canada. Through our range of community initiatives, grass-roots educational programs, research and advocacy, we elevate awareness and foster a compassionate environment for those affected by lung conditions, including their caregivers. We are dedicated to improving the lung health of Canadians.” Learn more at lunghealth.ca
  • LVNG With Lung Cancer: LVNG With Lung Cancer is a community of over 260,000 people around the world who continue to inspire, support, educate and connect with one another after being diagnosed with lung cancer. From newly diagnosed members to people with loved ones who are no longer with us, we come together to share our stories and support each other.” Learn more at lvng.ca
  • Right2Survive “spreads awareness of lung cancer in Canada, and of the vital importance of access to screening programs. Join us as we encourage governments across the country to improve access to and awareness of lung cancer screening. You have the right to survive.” Learn more at right2survive.ca