How long can one live with advanced small cell lung cancer

The survival period of patients with advanced small cell lung cancer is usually short, and treatment is mainly chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, with the aim of delaying disease progression and improving quality of life. Small cell lung cancer is highly malignant and easily metastasizes in the early stages. Most cases are already in the advanced stages when diagnosed, and the 5-year survival rate is less than 10%.

1. Chemotherapy is the main treatment for advanced small cell lung cancer. Commonly used drugs include etoposide, cisplatin, carboplatin, etc., which control the disease by killing cancer cells or inhibiting their growth. Chemotherapy regimens are usually combined medications, such as etoposide combined with cisplatin or carboplatin, and the treatment cycle is 4-6 courses. Side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, hair loss, bone marrow suppression, etc., which need to be combined with symptomatic treatment.

2. Radiotherapy is often used to relieve symptoms of advanced small cell lung cancer. Radiotherapy for primary tumors can relieve symptoms such as coughing and dyspnea; radiotherapy for brain metastases can prevent or treat headaches, vomiting, etc. caused by brain metastases. Radiotherapy is usually used in combination with chemotherapy, and the dosage and course of treatment are individualized according to the patient's condition. Radiotherapy may cause side effects such as skin reactions and fatigue, so you need to pay attention to protection.

3. Immunotherapy is a treatment method that has developed rapidly in recent years. It activates the patient's own immune system to attack cancer cells and is suitable for some patients with advanced small cell lung cancer. Commonly used drugs include PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and atezolizumab. Immunotherapy may cause immune-related adverse reactions, which need to be closely monitored and treated in a timely manner.

4. Supportive treatment is crucial for patients with advanced small cell lung cancer. Nutritional support can improve the patient's physical condition. A high-protein, high-calorie diet is recommended, and nutritional supplements are used when necessary. Pain management is an important part, and opioids such as morphine and fentanyl can be used to control cancer pain. Psychological counseling can help relieve the anxiety of patients and their families, and help can be obtained through psychological counseling or support groups.

Although the prognosis of advanced small cell lung cancer is poor, active treatment can still prolong survival. Patients should maintain an optimistic attitude, cooperate with doctors to develop individualized treatment plans, and pay attention to daily care to maximize the quality of life. Family members should give patients full care and support to face the challenges of the disease together.