TriangleFOR PATIENTS · SOURCE READING
Certain factors affect the prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.
Source: Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version, National Cancer Institute.
Source updated: May 16, 2025 · Captured 2026-09-09.
Selected source text with whitespace normalised. This Triangle page is not an NCI PDQ summary. Independent clinical review is pending.
The prognosis and treatment options depend on:
the stage of the cancer (the size of the tumor and whether it is in the lung only or has spread to other places in the body)
the type of lung cancer
whether the cancer has mutations (changes) in certain genes, such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene or the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene
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whether there are signs and symptoms such as coughing or trouble breathing
your general health
For most people with non-small cell lung cancer, current treatments do not cure the cancer. If lung cancer is found, you may want to think about taking part in one of the many clinical trials being done to improve treatment or quality of life. Clinical trials are taking place in most parts of the country for people with all stages of non-small cell lung cancer. Information about ongoing clinical trials is available at Clinical Trials Information for Patients and Caregivers.
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Preserved source evidence · Independent clinical review pending · Not medical advice