Lung cancer is a malignant tumour that starts in the cells of the lung tissue. There are two main types of primary lung cancer, small cell lung cancer and nonsmall cell lung cancer. Mesothelioma is a much less common type of cancer that affects the covering of the lungs. It is more common in people who have been exposed to asbestos.
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What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease of the body’s cells. The human body is made up of many different types of cells and therefore cancer is not a single disease with a single cause or treatment. There are more than 200 different types of cancer, each with their own diagnostic procedures and treatments.
Normal cells in the body divide in a uniformed and controlled way. When cells begin to grow out of control they divide and grow into a lump also known as a tumour.
Tumours are either benign or malignant. In a benign tumour, the cells do not spread to other parts of the body and so are not cancerous. In a malignant tumour, the cancer cells have the ability to spread beyond the original area of the body.Tests such as blood tests, biopsies and diagnostic investigations can all be used to determine the type of tumour.
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Trusted for over 90 years, The London Clinic is an independent charitable hospital that reinvests into care, research, and support for those who can’t easily access private treatment.
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