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Lung cancer

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Location of lungs in chest, showing lung cancer in upper lobe of a lung

Lung cancer means that cells in your lungs are growing abnormally and out of control. The cancer cells can spread to other parts of your body. Most lung cancer is caused by tobacco smoke.

Current as of: August 22, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Michael Seth Rabin MD - Medical Oncology

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.

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