The most common question faced by doctors from lung cancer patients and their loved ones is about stage 4 lung cancer life expectancy. Nearly half of the patients reach the advanced stage by the time they are diagnosed with lung cancer. This is due to the fact that most of the symptoms go unnoticed till the condition gets really serious. Stage 4 lung cancer life expectancy depends on different factors. In this article, we take a look at these factors in order to get a clear idea.
Factors which Influence Stage 4 Lung Cancer Life Expectancy
There is no common number or time period that doctors can predict regarding life expectancy. It depends on several factors, some of which include:
- Type and Location – Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients have a higher chance of survival when compared to small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients. The location of the cancer also determines the life expectancy. If the cancer has spread extensively, then the chances of surviving for a longer period of time are less.
- Age – Younger cancer patients tend to have a longer life than older cancer patients.
- Gender – Women have a longer life expectancy in every stage of lung cancer when compared to men.
- General health – A person who has no underlying health conditions or complications at the time of diagnosis has a better chance of surviving longer. It also helps in responding well to the treatment.
- Response to treatment – Some lung cancer patients respond very well to treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation whereas others don’t. Sometimes, a combination of two treatments can improve the survival rate in patients. Better response to treatment will increase the life expectancy.
It is important to remember that stage 4 lung cancer is treatable. Though lung cancer may have no cure, the symptoms and other complications can be effectively treated. A lot of clinical trials are being conducted to come up with treatment options which would increase stage 4 lung cancer life expectancy in future.
