Focus on Lung Cancer Research

Lung cancer is the most common form of cancer in the world and a major cause of death. This new book brings together stellar research from around the world. The two main types of primary lung cancer small cell and non-small cell are examined. The book's scope encompasses the three main types of non-small cell lung cancer: squamous cell carcinoma which is the commonest type of lung cancer and develops in the cells which line the airways; adenocarcinoma develops from the cells which produce mucus in the lining of the airways; large cell carcinoma gets its name from the large, rounded cells that are seen when they are examined under the microscope. About 1 in 5 lung cancers are small cell, the rest non-small cell. Causes of lung cancer are primarily smoking, but include as well exposure to radon, asbestos, uranium, arsenic, and certain petroleum products. Research and new drugs are appearing with increasing frequency in this field.