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