Lung Cancer
Our service provides comprehensive care to people affected by lung cancer from diagnosis and treatment, through to follow-up care. Our expert team provide coordinated care in a supportive environment for patients, their carers and families.
About lung cancer
Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the lung and grow in an uncontrolled way. Lung cancer is the fifth most common diagnosed cancer affecting more than 13,000 Australians every year.
For some people, lung cancer is diagnosed unexpectedly after a chest x-ray or CT scan is performed for another reason. However, most people present to their doctor with new symptoms such as a cough, wheezing, breathlessness, chest pain or weight loss.
People with a suspected diagnosis of lung cancer are referred to the Lung Cancer Assessment Service to undertake further investigation. This determines the best treatment for the individual and the appropriate team of specialists who will care for them.
Visit the Cancer Council website to learn more about lung cancer.
Our service
The Alfred Lung Cancer Service includes an experienced team of:
- Medical oncologists
- Radiation oncologists
- Respiratory physicians
- Cardiothoracic surgeons
- Radiologists
- Pathologists
- Cancer support nurses
- Allied health specialists
We work together in a multi-disciplinary team, and in collaboration with each patient, to develop a management and follow-up plan to ensure the best outcomes are achieved for physical and psychological wellbeing.
Treatment pathways vary depending on the subtype of lung cancer and whether the cancer cells have spread beyond the lung. Treatments can include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and chemotherapy.
For more information
- Cancer Council Victoria – information, resources and support services
- Lung Foundation Australia – information and resources for people with lung disease
- Beyond Blue – support for anxiety and depression
- WeCan – cancer supportive care services
