Understanding small cell lung cancer

What is small cell lung cancer?

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive form of cancer known for its rapid growth and early spread to other parts of the body. SCLC is the most common form of neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC), accounting for 15% of all lung cancers.¹ SCLC is strongly linked to tobacco exposure.²

Survival rates for SCLC vary significantly based on the stage at diagnosis. Only one-third of patients are diagnosed at a localized, earlier stage, where potentially curative treatments are possible. Most people with SCLC have extensive-stage disease at the time of diagnosis^.3 

Receiving any cancer diagnosis is life changing. Being diagnosed with SCLC can have a profound physical, psychological, and emotional impact on the daily lives of those affected, as well as on their families and caregivers.⁴

Treatments for small cell lung cancer

Treatment options are personalized for each individual based on the type of lung cancer, its location, activity and fitness level, and the cancer's stage at diagnosis.⁵

Current treatment options for advanced SCLC include chemotherapy and immunotherapy, but they are associated with a limited duration of response.There is an urgent need for additional targeted therapies for people living with SCLC, the most aggressive of all lung cancer types and associated with an overall survival rate of 5-10% at 5 years.⁶ 

References:

1. Basumallik, N. Small Cell Lung Cancer. US National Library of Medicine. Accessed July 2024. 
2. Small-cell lung cancer | Nature Reviews Disease Primers.
3. Small Cell Lung Cancer - NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov).
4. WebMD - Metastatic Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Taking Care of Your Mental Health.
5. Lung Cancer Treatment | Johns Hopkins Medicine.
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10377361/.