Lung cancer care in southern New Hampshire
Parkland Medical Center performs the latest imaging procedures to diagnose lung and thoracic cancers as early as possible. To ensure the most effective treatment possible, you’ll have access to our experienced multispecialty team and the experts we collaborate with at the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center and our sister facility, Portsmouth Regional Hospital.
For answers to any questions you have about lung cancer, call our Consult-A-Nurse® team, available 24/7, at (877) 642-2362.
Lung cancer is the most common cancer originating in the chest cavity. Two main types of lung cancer—small cell and non-small cell—grow differently and require different treatments.
Tobacco smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, but anyone can develop this disease. Other causes of lung cancer include:
- Genetics
- Radon or asbestos exposure
- Air pollution
- Secondhand tobacco smoke
The signs of lung cancer, such as wheezing and bloody mucus, may be confused with other conditions. This means lung cancer may go undiagnosed until it's very advanced, which is why regular lung cancer screenings are essential for people who are at higher risk for developing the disease.
Lung cancer screening
Screening for lung cancer starts with a consultation. Then, you’ll work with your primary care doctor and our imaging specialists to arrange a low-radiation-dose computed tomography (CT) scan and a follow-up appointment.
Diagnosing lung cancer
If an abnormality is detected during a lung screening, we have the advanced technology to promptly perform additional testing. Other diagnostic services we may recommend to identify lung cancer include:
- Esophageal ultrasound
- Endobronchial ultrasound to help determine the level (stage) of lung cancer
- 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT scanning and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to assess tumor growth
- Access to photodynamic therapy for esophageal cancer and Barrett’s esophagus tests
- Biopsies
Lung cancer treatment
To ensure the best possible outcome following a lung cancer diagnosis, we integrate education and support into our cancer care program. Lung cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or a combined approach. You’ll also benefit from the range of other services offered to patients at Parkland, including:
- Pulmonary care (specialized care for a variety of acute and chronic lung conditions)
- Nutrition planning (nutrition services to help cancer patients meet their dietary needs)
- Cancer support (support groups and services to help with a cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship)
- Pain management (medication, therapy and other resources to help cancer patients manage pain)
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation (physical, speech and occupational therapy to help patients recover following cancer treatment)
