Lung Cancer
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with lung cancer, you are not alone. Statistics prove that regardless of smoking status history, men have a 1 in 14 chance, and women have a 1 in 17 chance of developing lung cancer in their lifetimes. There are several subtypes of lung cancer, with most cases falling under non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Other types of cancer, such as bladder, colon, and breast, can spread to the lungs, but these are not considered lung cancer as they act and respond to treatments based on the tissue they originated. A lung cancer prognosis is based on several factors, such as the extent of the disease at diagnosis, or “stage,” the treatments available for the specific subtype of lung cancer, and the genetic makeup of the tumor. A person’s age and their overall state of health, as well as how responsive the tumor is to treatment, play a significant role as well.
Typically, a patient will undergo blood work, imaging, and procedures such as CT-Guided biopsy or bronchoscopy before a lung cancer diagnosis can be made. Depending on the diagnosis and stage, several doctors may work together to coordinate the patient’s care, including a pulmonologist, thoracic surgeon, radiation oncologist, and medical oncologist.
AN INTEGRATIVE AND INDIVIDUALIZED APPROACH TO LUNG CANCER TREATMENT.
At Salish Cancer Center, our medical oncologists deliver the latest, most effective treatments for the stage of lung cancer each patient has. In addition, they routinely order additional genetic testing to tailor treatment, such as immunotherapy, to the tumor’s unique expression. Patients will also meet with one of our naturopathic doctors to learn what natural therapies they could incorporate into their treatment plan to increase the effectiveness of conventional therapy, prevent the growth of cancer, and mitigate potential side effects from conventional treatment. Other integrative services offered at Salish include acupuncture and Native Healing. Acupuncture treatments are often highly effective for many cancer-related conditions people experience throughout their care. Native Healing is offered to all patients interested in addressing their imbalances on a deeper, more spiritual level.
FEATURING A HOLISTIC MODEL OF CANCER CARE.
The holistic model of care at Salish Cancer Center sets us apart from other cancer centers. We look at your cancer with a wide-angle lens, considering all possible versus a narrower one-treatment-fits-all approach.
Financing cancer treatment can be a stressor. We accept most insurance plans, and our financial counselor is available to discuss pricing and fees before your first visit. Our clinic must receive all pertinent records before your appointments are scheduled so that we can give you our most well-informed recommendations.
For more detailed information on lung cancer types, potential treatments, or to learn more about our services, please continue reading through our site and visit the Resources page for helpful tools and information.
Our caring support staff is available by phone to answer questions and schedule consultations. Whether you are newly diagnosed with lung cancer, exploring further options, or would like a second opinion, the combined expertise of the physician team at Salish Cancer Center is here for you.