Lung Cancer Treatment
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in India. Every year, thousands of lives are lost because of late diagnosis and delayed treatment. The good news is that lung cancer treatment has improved a lot in recent years. With the right care and the right doctor, many patients can live longer and healthier lives.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud is a trusted Lung Cancer Surgeon in Pune with over 15+ years of experience. He is one of the most experienced Cancer Specialists in Pune. He has successfully treated more than 10,000 patients with a 95% success rate. He treats Thoracic, Breast, Head & Neck, Gastrointestinal, and Gynecologic cancers. He has performed over 500 Head & Neck surgeries and is trained in robotic surgery, laparoscopic cancer surgery, VATS, HIPEC, and other minimally invasive procedures. This means less pain, smaller cuts, and faster recovery for patients.
He is a leading Lung Cancer Specialist in Pune practising at Jupiter Hospital, Baner. He provides advanced cancer care to patients from Pune, PCMC, and across Maharashtra. Dr. Bhirud has been recognised nationally for his work in surgical oncology. He received the Best Oral Paper Award at ISO 2019 for his research on 3D VATS esophagectomy. He also won the Best Poster Award at ISO-ISMPO 2019 for his work on induction chemotherapy in locally advanced oral tongue cancer. He was honoured with the JRD Tata Scholarship during his MBBS. He has attended more than 20 national conferences and has published several oncosurgical articles in indexed national journals.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer begins when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs. These cells can form a tumour. Over time, the tumour can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other organs.
The lungs are responsible for breathing and supplying oxygen to the blood. When cancer affects the lungs, it disrupts this process and can cause serious breathing problems. Early detection is the key to better outcomes.
Understanding the Different Types of Lung Cancer:
Understanding the type of lung cancer helps in planning the right treatment. The WHO lung cancer classification broadly divides lung cancer into two main categories:
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) — This is the most common type. It includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. It grows more slowly than small cell cancer.
- Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) — This type is less common but grows faster. It tends to spread quickly and is often diagnosed at a later stage.
- Other rare types — These include carcinoid tumours, lymphoma of the lung, and secondary (metastatic) lung cancers.
A proper pathology report and staging help a Cancer Specialist in Pune decide the most effective treatment approach.
Common Causes and Risk Factors of Lung Cancer:
Understanding why lung cancer happens helps in prevention and early action:
- Smoking — The single biggest cause. Tobacco smoke contains over 70 known cancer-causing chemicals.
- Passive smoking — Regular exposure to secondhand smoke also significantly increases risk.
- Air pollution — Long-term exposure to polluted air, especially in cities, raises lung cancer risk.
- Radon gas — A naturally occurring radioactive gas found in soil and buildings.
- Asbestos and workplace chemicals — Exposure to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, and diesel fumes.
- Genetic factors — A family history of lung cancer increases personal risk.
- Previous lung disease — Conditions like COPD or pulmonary fibrosis may increase susceptibility.
Early Symptoms of Lung Cancer You Should Not Ignore:
Many people ignore early warning signs. Watch out for:
- A persistent cough that does not go away or gets worse
- Coughing up blood or rust-coloured sputum
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
- Shortness of breath during routine activities
- Hoarseness or change in voice
- Recurrent chest infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia
- Swelling in the face or neck
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a Cancer Doctor immediately. Early consultation can make a life-saving difference.
Who is at Risk for Lung Cancer?
- Smokers — Current or former heavy smokers face the highest risk.
- Age 50+ — Risk increases significantly after the age of 50.
- Occupational exposure — Workers in mining, construction, and chemical industries are at higher risk.
- Family history — People with close relatives diagnosed with lung cancer should be extra careful.
- Air pollution exposure — People living near industrial zones or high-traffic areas face increased risk.
- Previous lung disease — A history of COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or tuberculosis can raise the risk.
If you belong to any of these groups, regular screening is essential. Speak to a lungs specialist in Pune for a personalised screening plan.
How is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is the first step towards effective treatment. Dr. Chirag Bhirud follows a thorough diagnostic process:
- Chest X-ray — First line of investigation for any lung abnormality.
- CT scan of the chest — Provides detailed images to detect tumours and assess their size.
- PET-CT scan — Identifies cancer spread to lymph nodes or distant organs.
- Bronchoscopy — A thin, flexible camera is inserted to examine the airways and collect tissue samples.
- Biopsy — A tissue sample is examined to confirm the type and stage of cancer.
- Molecular testing — Identifies specific gene mutations (EGFR, ALK, ROS1) to guide targeted therapy.
- Pulmonary function tests — Assess lung capacity before surgery planning.
As an experienced Cancer Surgeon in Pune, Dr. Chirag Bhirud uses the latest diagnostic tools to ensure the correct diagnosis before starting any cancer treatment.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer:
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. Dr. Chirag Bhirud offers a full range of options:
- Surgery — Removal of the tumour and surrounding tissue. Options include lobectomy, pneumonectomy, or segmentectomy depending on the extent of cancer.
- Robotic surgery — As a Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Pune, Dr. Bhirud performs minimally invasive lung resections with precision. Robotic surgery means smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.
- Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) — A minimally invasive keyhole approach for early-stage lung cancer.
- Chemotherapy — Powerful medicines to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours before surgery.
- Radiation therapy — High-energy beams targeted at cancer cells after surgery or when surgery is not possible.
- Targeted therapy — Medicines that target specific gene mutations. Very effective for EGFR-positive or ALK-positive lung cancers.
- Immunotherapy — Boosts the body’s immune system to recognise and fight cancer cells.
- Palliative care — For advanced-stage lung cancer, palliative treatment helps control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Every patient at Jupiter Hospital receives a personalised lung cancer treatment plan designed by Dr. Chirag Bhirud and his multidisciplinary team.
Prevention and Early Detection of Lung Cancer:
How to Lower Your Risk of Lung Cancer?
- Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke
- Limit exposure to environmental toxins like radon
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine
The Importance of Screening and Early Detection
Low-dose CT scans are recommended for early detection, particularly for heavy smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer.
Living with Lung Cancer: Coping Strategies and Support
- Managing the Emotional Impact of Lung Cancer: A diagnosis can be overwhelming. Seek counselling, meditation, or support groups to help cope with the emotional impact.
- Support Networks and Resources for Lung Cancer Patients: Numerous organizations offer resources and networks to help patients and families. Consider trusted institutions or onco surgeons in Pune who provide comprehensive care.
Lung Cancer Treatment Costs and Insurance Coverage :
- Understanding the Financial Aspects of Lung Cancer Treatment: Treatment costs can vary depending on the stage of cancer and the chosen approach (surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, etc.).
- Insurance and Coverage Options for Lung Cancer Treatment: Most insurance providers cover cancer treatments. Check with your provider regarding reimbursement procedures and pre-approved hospitals.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips After Lung Cancer Surgery
Post-surgery recovery requires attention to both body and mind:
- Eat small, frequent meals. Large meals can cause breathlessness.
- Include protein-rich foods such as eggs, fish, lentils, and paneer to support healing.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
- Stay well hydrated. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
- Do breathing exercises as advised by your physiotherapist. They help rebuild lung capacity.
- Avoid smoky or polluted environments completely.
- Take short, regular walks to rebuild strength and improve lung function.
- Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Chirag Bhirud without fail.
- Seek emotional support. A counsellor or support group can help greatly during recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Chirag Bhirud for Lung Cancer Treatment in Pune?
Dr. Chirag Bhirud is one of the most trusted Cancer Specialists in PCMC and Pune. Here is why patients choose him:
- Over 15 years of expertise as a Surgical Oncologist in Pune specialising in thoracic and lung cancers.
- Advanced robotic and VATS surgery skills for minimal pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery.
- Awarded best oral paper at ISO 2019 for research on 3D VATS esophagectomy — a testament to his thoracic expertise.
- Treated 10,000+ patients with a 95% success rate across all cancer types.
- Personalised treatment plans — no two patients receive the same protocol.
- Multidisciplinary team approach at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, with oncologists, radiologists, pulmonologists, and physiotherapists working together.
- Compassionate, honest communication — patients and families are always kept informed.
- Conveniently located at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, serving patients from across Pune, PCMC, and Maharashtra.
If you are looking for an expert Cancer Specialist in Pune or want to consult a dedicated Lung Specialist, Dr. Chirag Bhirud is the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) about Lung Cancer Treatment:
The lung cancer cure rate depends heavily on the stage at diagnosis. For Stage 1 lung cancer, the 5-year survival rate can be as high as 80-90% with surgery. For Stage 2 and 3, survival rates range from 30-60% with combined treatment. For Stage 4 (advanced) cancer, targeted therapies and immunotherapy are helping patients live longer than ever before. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes. Regular screening is strongly recommended for high-risk individuals.
Yes, non-smokers can develop lung cancer due to radon, pollution, or genetic factors.
Lung cancer happens when cells in the lungs develop genetic mutations that cause them to grow out of control. Smoking is responsible for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. Other causes include passive smoking, air pollution, radon gas, asbestos exposure, and hereditary genetic factors. Non-smokers can also develop lung cancer, often due to environmental exposure or gene mutations. Understanding why lung cancer happens helps in taking preventive action at the right time.
Some common symptoms include persistent coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unintentional weight loss. It is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Yes. Not all lung cancer patients require surgery. Depending on the stage and type, treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy — either alone or in combination. Dr. Chirag Bhirud evaluates each patient individually and recommends the most appropriate treatment. Some patients with early-stage cancer detected during screening may also be candidates for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), a highly precise non-surgical option.
Recovery after lung surgery typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. Robotic and VATS procedures usually allow faster recovery — most patients are mobile within 24-48 hours. Full return to normal activities may take 2-3 months depending on the extent of surgery and individual health. Dr. Chirag Bhirud and his team provide a detailed post-operative care plan to ensure smooth and complete recovery.