Lung Cancer

Personalised treatments designed to fight cancer while minimising side effects.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer begins when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs, forming a tumour. These cells can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. There are two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for about 80–85% of cases, and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which is less common but often more aggressive.

How Common is Lung Cancer in Singapore?

According to GLOBOCAN 2020, lung cancer is the third most common cancer in Singapore and the leading cause of cancer deaths. It is more common in men, with smoking being the main risk factor, but non-smokers — especially women — are also at risk due to genetic and environmental factors such as second-hand smoke and air pollution.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer symptoms can be subtle in early stages. Common warning signs include:

If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor promptly for assessment.

Screening for Lung Cancer

Early detection improves treatment outcomes. High-risk individuals — especially long-term smokers, people with a strong family history, or those exposed to occupational/environmental risks — may benefit from low-dose CT scans for early screening.

How is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

  • Imaging tests (chest X-rays, CT scans, PET scans)
  • Biopsy (collecting tissue samples via bronchoscopy or needle biopsy)
  • Molecular testing (to identify genetic mutations such as EGFR, ALK, ROS1, KRAS, which help guide targeted therapy)

At OncoCare, we use comprehensive biomarker testing and next-generation sequencing (NGS) to determine if your cancer carries gene mutations or high PD-L1 expression. This helps us select the most effective, personalised treatments for each patient.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Lung Cancer?

  • Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) — the leading cause
  • Second-hand smoke exposure
  • Air pollution and occupational exposure to carcinogens (e.g. asbestos, radon, diesel exhaust)
  • Family history or inherited genetic mutations
  • Previous lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

What are the Types of Lung Cancer?

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

Includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma

Less common, grows and spreads faster, usually linked to smoking

What are the Stages of Lung Cancer?

Stage I–II

Localised cancer confined to the lungs

Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or chest structures

Advanced stage, cancer has spread to distant organs
(metastatic lung cancer)

What are Lung Cancer Treatments?

Treatment depends on cancer type, stage, and genetic profile. Options include:

Surgery

Removal of part or all of the affected lung in early-stage disease.

Radiotherapy

Modern techniques like stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) target tumours precisely, sparing healthy tissue.

Palliative care

Symptom relief and quality-of-life support for advanced cases.

At OncoCare Singapore, our oncologists are experienced in matching patients to precision therapies based on their tumour profile. We integrate advanced diagnostics, international guidelines, and cutting-edge treatments to provide care comparable to leading global cancer centres.

Meet Our Doctors

At OncoCare Singapore, our multidisciplinary team includes medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, and allied health professionals such as nutritionists and counsellors. Together, they deliver comprehensive and personalised care, ensuring every patient receives the best possible treatment plan.

Senior Medical Oncologist
Senior Medical Oncologist
Senior Medical Oncologist
Senior Medical Oncologist
Senior Medical Oncologist
Senior Medical Oncologist
Senior Medical Oncologist