November 21, 2008

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Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (cont.)

Outlook

Overall, 14% of people with NSCLC survive for at least 5 years.

  • People who have stage I NSCLC and undergo surgery have a 70% chance of surviving 5 years.


  • People with extensive nonoperable NSCLC have an average survival duration of 9 months.
How well the person with NSCLC functions can have a strong effect on the survival duration. A person with small-cell lung cancer who functions well has an advantage over someone who cannot work or pursue normal activities.
 
Complications of NSCLC 
  • Spinal cord compression


  • Bone pain


  • Hormone or electrolyte imbalances


  • Problems with mental functioning or concentration


  • Visual problems


  • Liver failure


  • Pain in right side from enlarged liver


  • Weight loss


  • Severe hemoptysis
Complications of chemotherapy 
  • Unexplained fever (due to neutropenia or infection)


  • Bleeding (due to low platelet count)


  • Electrolyte imbalances


  • Kidney failure


  • Peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness, pain in extremities)


  • Hearing problems



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