What is the difference between ALK inhibitors?
There are a number of different ALK-inhibitors now routinely for ALK positive lung cancer. This article explains the various treatments in different generations of development.
How long do I have to live?
Cancer treatments are usually aimed at prolonging life and improving symptoms, rather than at cure. Many people and their families value honest and empathic discussion around their possible prognosis. However, it is critical to understand that every individual is different, that clinical trials and ‘averages’ do not apply to individuals, and that the doctor will almost always be wrong if they give a specific number of months or years.
When should I consider radiation for lung cancer?
After a diagnosis of lung cancer, many people are not sure about the role of radiation or indeed on what to expect from radiation therapy. This article summarizes several reasons why you may wish to consider radiation treatment.
My lung cancer is ALK positive – what does that mean?
Most people find out they are ALK positive in the setting of their cancer having already spread far enough such that surgery or radiation therapy are unlikely to be the initial approaches (distant disease). At this stage, knowing you are ALK positive opens up a range of pill options which would be very effective in most people and, although not a cure, can control the disease in most people for several years.
New treatments in advanced non-small cell lung cancer 2022
In recent years, we have learned more about the genetic changes that occur in lung cancer cells (known as somatic genetic alterations). Testing for these genetic alterations is now recommended for all patients with newly diagnosed non-small cell lung cancer. Excitingly, more and more of these genetic alterations can now be treated with targeted treatments.