Immunotherapy Treatment for Lung Cancer

Comprehensive Guide to Lung Cancer Immunotherapy

Lung cancer is the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. Individuals with a habit of regular smoking have the highest chances of lung cancer. Lung cancer risk also increases with the length of time and number of cigarettes an individual smokes. If the individual stops smoking, even after smoking for various years, it can significantly lessen the chances of developing lung cancer. 

As a matter of fact, lung cancer also can occur in individuals who have never smoked in their entire life. According to a research, lung cancer affects approximately 2.1 million population every year and causes around 1.7 million deaths, making it the leading cause of cancer deaths in males as well as females. 

However, from the last a few years immunotherapy treatment has brought a new hope to many patients. 

What is Immunotherapy? 

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that strengthens the immune system to fight against several types of cancer. Compared to other cancer therapies, like radiation therapy and chemotherapy, immunotherapy has become a standard treatment option for eligible patients. However, these drugs are often very expensive, and treatment costs can be significant. 

Immunotherapy is often used to treat people with stage 3 or stage 4 lung cancer. It is considered as a successful treatment option for both small cell and non-small cell lung cancer. 

In general, cancer cells can hide from the immune system or block its response. Immunotherapy works by removing these blocks or boosting the immune system’s ability to find and destroy cancer. 

It includes various types of Immunotherapy treatments. Some of them are: 

• Checkpoint inhibitors: It blocks stop cancer cells from hiding from your immune system. They assist the immune system to identify cancer cells and attack them, which can eventually stop tumor growth. 
• Cancer vaccines: Cancer vaccines assist train the immune system to detect cancer cells. 
• Monoclonal antibodies: Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made antibody proteins. They can target specific parts of cancer cells. 

Where Can We Receive Immunotherapy Treatments? 

Individuals can get immunotherapy at: 

• Doctor's office 
• A cancer clinic 
• A hospital outpatient centre 

Types of Lung Cancer 

Lung cancer is mainly divided into two types. Let’s discuss them briefly. 

1. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): Small cell lung cancer is less known type, but is growing rapidly. It accounts for around 10-15% of all known lung cancer cases. 
2. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Non-small cell lung cancer is the well- known type of lung cancer. It accounts for around 85-90% of all known lung cancers cases. 

Both Small cell lung cancer and Non-small cell lung cancer can be treated and managed with immunotherapy; thus, the approach and effectiveness can differ. 

Immunotherapy for NSCLC  

Non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. Immunotherapy plays a significant role in the treatment of advanced and unresectable NSCLC, either as a single agent or in combination with chemotherapy, depending on disease stage and biomarker status. 

Checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD‑1, PD‑L1, or CTLA‑4 are commonly used in NSCLC. These therapies help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells by blocking immune‑evasion pathways. Immunotherapy may be used as first‑line treatment, consolidation therapy after chemoradiation, or in later lines of treatment based on clinical evaluation. 

Immunotherapy for SCLC  

SCLC is more aggressive and spreads quickly. For many years, chemotherapy was the only option. But in 2019, the FDA approved atezolizumab (a checkpoint inhibitor) with chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for extensive-stage SCLC 2. 

Cost of Lung Cancer Immunotherapy in India 

Let us review the table to determine the approximate price of different types of immunotherapies. 

Cost of Immunotherapy in the Indian Market 

Who Can Benefit from Immunotherapy? 

Remember, all lung cancer patients are not eligible for immunotherapy. Doctors look at factors like: 

• PD-L1 levels: Higher levels may mean better response. 
• Tumor mutation burden (TMB): More mutations can make cancer easier to detect by the immune system. 
• Overall health: Patients need to be healthy enough to handle treatment. 

What are the Side Effects of Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer 

The common side effects of Immunotherapy for lung cancer include: 

• Cough 
• Fatigue 
• Nausea 
• Itchy Skin 
• Skin rash 
• Loss of appetite 
• Pain in the Stomach 
• Joint or, muscle pain 

How to Get Rid of Immunotherapy Treatment Side Effects for Lung Cancer? 

To manage immunotherapy side effects, follow these simple and practical tips:   

• Medical examination: Regular health check-ups can help you monitor health issues early and ensure timely treatment. 
• Maintain skin hydration: Keep your skin moisturised to prevent dryness and irritation. If you notice any rashes or peeling on the skin, talk to your doctor. 
• Avoid direct sunlight: Avoid going in direct sunlight, especially during golden hours. If necessary, use high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin. 
• Engage in gentle physical activities: Doing light activities such as walking and stretching can help you improve your energy levels. 
• Keep your body well-hydrated: Drink 7-8 glasses of fluids throughout the day. Avoid soft drinks and soda. 
• Balance activity and relaxation: Manage fatigue by avoiding work if you are not feeling well. If work is necessary, try to take naps after every hour to recharge. 
• Handle nerve-related symptoms: Limit alcohol consumption and engage in regular exercise, as it helps in managing numbness. 

To Sum Up 

Immunotherapy has changed the way lung cancer is treated. It has given a new hope to the patients who previously had few options. While it is not a cure for everyone, but it has helped many people live a longer and happier lives. 

Reader Information: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment guidance. Lung cancer and its treatment options, including immunotherapy, vary based on individual medical conditions, cancer type, stage, biomarker status, and overall health. Treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified oncologist or healthcare professional.

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