Definition

Noun: A malignant tumor (carcinoma) that originates in the tissues of the lung, typically in the cells lining the air passages. It is one of the most prevalent and serious forms of cancer worldwide.

Usage

"Lung cancer" is used as a non-count noun when referring to the disease in general and as a count noun when referring to a specific case or type. - General reference: Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer. - Specific reference: He was diagnosed with a lung cancer that was difficult to treat.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor explained the risks associated with advanced lung cancer.
  • Early detection can significantly improve survival rates for lung cancer.
  • Research into new treatments for lung cancer is ongoing.

Advanced Usage

• "to die of lung cancer": to have lung cancer as the cause of death.
  • Her grandfather died of lung cancer.
• "lung cancer patient/survivor": a person who is undergoing treatment for or has survived the disease.
  • Support groups are available for lung cancer survivors.

Variants and Related Words

• Lung carcinoma: A more clinical synonym.
• Bronchogenic carcinoma: A specific medical term for the most common type of lung cancer that begins in the bronchi.
• Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC): One of the two main types, known for its rapid growth.
• Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC): A category encompassing several slower-growing types of lung cancer.

Synonyms

• Carcinoma of the lung(s): The formal medical term.
• Pulmonary carcinoma: A less common synonym using "pulmonary," which means relating to the lungs.

Related Phrases

• "risk factor for lung cancer": something that increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
  • Exposure to radon gas is a known risk factor for lung cancer.
• "lung cancer screening": the process of testing for lung cancer in people without symptoms.
  • Annual lung cancer screening is recommended for heavy smokers over a certain age.

Noun

1. carcinoma of the lungs; one of the commonest forms of cancer