Lung Cancer Care Close to Home

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

This is the most common form of lung cancer, accounting for the majority of diagnoses. Subtypes may include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Treatment options vary depending on the specific subtype and stage.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

This less common type tends to grow and spread more quickly and is often associated with tobacco use. Prompt diagnosis and treatment planning are especially important.

Our experienced oncology team provides evaluation and treatment planning for:

• Non-small cell lung cancer
• Small cell lung cancer
• Metastatic lung cancer
• Mediastinal tumors
• Mesothelioma
• Squamous cell carcinomas of the lung

Every diagnosis is unique, which is why treatment recommendations are tailored to your specific cancer type, stage, health history, and personal goals.

No matter where you are in your journey, Nebraska Cancer Specialists is committed to providing expert guidance, coordinated care, and compassionate support — helping care for your physical health while supporting your peace of mind every step of the way.

Symptoms can vary from person to person and may not appear in early stages. Potential signs include:

• A persistent or worsening cough
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Hoarseness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

Because early lung cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, regular screening for those at higher risk can play an important role in early detection.

Symptoms That Need Immediate Attention

Seek medical care right away if you experience:

• Coughing up blood (even small amounts)
• Severe or worsening chest pain
• Sudden shortness of breath

While anyone can develop lung cancer, risk is higher for:

• Current or former smokers
• People exposed to secondhand smoke
• Those with a history of radon exposure
• Individuals exposed to asbestos or other workplace toxins
• People with a family history of lung cancer

Being proactive about your health is one of the best ways to protect your wellbeing. Early detection can expand treatment options and may improve outcomes. Nebraska Cancer Specialists works closely with imaging providers and healthcare partners across Omaha and surrounding communities to help coordinate timely evaluation when concerns arise.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

• CT scans or other advanced imaging
• Biopsy procedures when needed
• Laboratory and pathology review
• Multidisciplinary care coordination

If you’re experiencing symptoms, have a history of smoking, or simply want clarity about your lung health, talking with a specialist can help guide next steps. Whether screening results are reassuring or further evaluation is needed, Nebraska Cancer Specialists is here to provide expert care, clear communication, and compassionate support throughout your journey.

Lung cancer staging helps doctors understand how far cancer has developed and whether it has spread. This information plays an important role in guiding treatment decisions, identifying appropriate therapies, and discussing prognosis.

At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, staging typically involves imaging, laboratory evaluation, and coordination with specialists to ensure an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Stages of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

Stage 0
Sometimes called carcinoma in situ, cancer cells are limited to the lining of the airways and have not spread into deeper lung tissue.

Stage I
Cancer is confined to the lung and has not spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Stage II
Cancer may involve nearby lymph nodes or structures within the chest but has not spread to distant organs.

Stage III
Cancer has spread more extensively within the chest, possibly involving lymph nodes near the lungs or nearby structures. This stage is often divided into subcategories based on location and extent.

Stage IV
Also known as metastatic lung cancer, cancer has spread beyond the lungs to other areas of the body such as the bones, liver, adrenal glands, or brain.

To determine the stage of lung cancer, your care team may recommend:

• CT scans or PET imaging
• MRI when appropriate
• Biopsy procedures
• Laboratory testing
• Multidisciplinary specialist consultation

These evaluations help guide treatment planning and ensure care is tailored to each individual’s needs.

Understanding the stage of lung cancer helps patients and providers make informed decisions about treatment options. Nebraska Cancer Specialists provides coordinated, personalized lung cancer care for patients across Omaha and communities throughout Nebraska, focusing on clear communication, expert treatment planning, and compassionate support throughout your journey.

Lung cancer can impact many aspects of your life, but advances in treatment continue to improve outcomes and quality of life. At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, we focus on individualized care plans that combine expertise, current therapies, and compassionate support for patients across Omaha and communities throughout Nebraska.

Treatment recommendations depend on the type and stage of lung cancer, overall health, and personal goals. Our oncology team works closely with surgeons, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists to coordinate comprehensive care every step of the way.

Common Lung Cancer Treatment Approaches

Surgical Care Coordination
Surgery may be recommended for certain early-stage lung cancers. Procedures are typically performed by specialized thoracic surgeons and may include removal of part of the lung (lobectomy or segmentectomy) or, in some cases, an entire lung. Our team helps coordinate care before and after surgery.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medications to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used before surgery, after surgery, alongside radiation therapy, or as a primary treatment for advanced disease.

Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy may be recommended alone or in combination with other treatments. It can also help relieve symptoms in advanced cases and support quality of life.

Targeted Therapy
Some lung cancers have specific genetic features that allow for precision treatments designed to target cancer cells while minimizing impact on healthy tissue.

Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and fight cancer cells and may be appropriate for certain types and stages of lung cancer.

Supportive and Palliative Care
Supportive care focuses on managing symptoms, maintaining comfort, and improving quality of life throughout treatment. This includes physical, emotional, and practical support for patients and families.

Chest X-ray
Sometimes used as an initial test, though it may not detect very small tumors.

CT Scan
Provides more detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs and can identify abnormal areas that need further evaluation.

PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography)
Often used after a suspicious area is found. A PET scan shows how active cells are in the body, helping doctors determine whether a mass may be cancer and whether it has spread.

Schedule a Lung Screening Here

If you, or a loved one, answered yes to any of the above, contact us using the secure form below.

Throughout your treatment journey, Nebraska Cancer Specialists prioritizes

• Clear communication
• Personalized care planning
• Compassionate support.

Whether discussing treatment options, managing side effects, or addressing lifestyle changes like smoking cessation, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence toward better health.

Symptoms can vary and may not appear in early stages. Common signs can include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue. If you notice ongoing symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as CT scans or other advanced imaging, along with biopsy procedures to confirm the presence of cancer. Nebraska Cancer Specialists works closely with imaging partners and specialists to coordinate timely evaluation and personalized care planning.

Treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual health factors. Options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, clinical trials, and coordination with surgical specialists when appropriate. Your oncology team will develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Staging helps determine how far cancer has progressed and whether it has spread. This information guides treatment decisions and helps your care team recommend the most effective approach while supporting your overall health and quality of life.

Yes. Nebraska Cancer Specialists provides comprehensive lung cancer care for patients across Omaha and surrounding communities — helping patients access expert treatment, clinical research opportunities, and supportive care close to home.

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