Dr. Li Yu Chung from the Hong Kong United Oncology Centre discusses risk factors and treatment options for lung adenocarcinoma.
According to a report by Economic Daily TOPick, Taiwanese actor Yen Cheng-kuo unfortunately passed away from lung adenocarcinoma at the age of 50. His death, less than a year after being diagnosed with late-stage lung adenocarcinoma, has once again drawn public attention to this deadly cancer.Dr. Li Yu Chung, a clinical oncologist at the Hong Kong United Oncology Centre, was interviewed and provided a detailed explanation of the six high-risk groups for lung adenocarcinoma, survival rates, symptoms, and treatment methods forlung cancer treatment, and also shared the latest breakthroughs in modern cancer treatment.
The report can be viewed on Economic Daily TOPick: "Yan Zheng-guo / Lung Adenocarcinoma / Symptoms | Yan Zheng-guo passed away from lung adenocarcinoma at the age of 50. Doctors explain the 6 high-risk groups, survival rate, symptoms, and treatment options."
The serious situation of lung adenocarcinoma in Hong Kong.
The fatality rate is as high as 66%.
Dr. Li Yu-chung cited data from the Hong Kong Cancer Registry in 2022, stating that there were 5,707 newly diagnosed cases of lung cancer in Hong Kong, with a mortality rate of 66%, making it the leading cause of cancer death in Hong Kong. Adenocarcinoma of the lung is a type of lung cancer, and in Asians, approximately 70% of lung cancer cases are of this type, a situation that cannot be ignored.
The survival rate for stage four is only 10 to 20%.
According to clinical statistics, nearly 60% of newly diagnosed lung cancer patients are already in stage four, meaning the cancer has spread. Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky stated that the survival rate depends on the stage of the tumor: the five-year survival rate for stage 1A lung cancer patients is over 90%, but it drops sharply to only 10 to 20% for stage four. This highlights the importance of early detection and timely treatment.
Six major high-risk groups for lung adenocarcinoma
Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky pointed out that over 90% of lung cancer patients are over 50 years old, and the median age of onset for lung cancer is approximately 70 years old. The following six groups of people are considered high-risk groups for lung adenocarcinoma:
- Long-term smokers: Including traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and heated cigarettes
- People with long-term exposure to second-hand smoke: Long-term exposure to smoke in the home or work environment
- Have a family history of lung cancer: An immediate family member has suffered from lung cancer
- Long-term exposure to air pollution: Including automobile exhaust gas, industrial exhaust gas
- Suffering from chronic lung disease: Such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Previously received chest radiotherapy: Previously received radiotherapy services for other illnesses.
Three warning signs that require immediate medical attention.
Persistent cough for more than 4 to 6 weeks
Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky emphasized that the early symptoms of lung cancer may not be obvious, but when the following symptoms occur, you must seek medical attention as soon as possible.：
- Long-term cough: Cough that lasts for more than four to six weeks, especially if the nature of the cough changes
- Dyspnea or asthma: Shortness of breath is easy during activities, and I still feel poor breathing when I rest
- Coughing up blood: Bloodshot or coughed up blood in phlegm
These symptoms may indicate that the lungs have developed lesions, and a detailed examination should be carried out immediately.
The importance of early screening
Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky suggests that individuals who smoke regularly or have a family history of lung cancer should begin regular low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans between the ages of 40 and 50 to detect early-stage lung cancer and significantly increase the chances of a cure.
The four main treatment options for modern lung cancer.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is suitable for patients with early-stage lung cancer, aiming for a curative effect by removing the tumor and surrounding tissue. Some patients may require chemotherapy and immunotherapy as neoadjuvant therapy before surgery to reduce tumor size and improve the success rate of the operation.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy kills rapidly dividing cancer cells through medication and is suitable for patients with all stages of lung cancer. The management of side effects from modern chemotherapy drugs has greatly improved, leading to significantly better patient tolerance.
Targeted therapy plan
Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky pointed out that patients fortunate enough to receive targeted therapy can have their condition controlled for years, significantly increasing their survival rate. Targeted therapy targets specific gene mutations in cancer cells, precisely attacking cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells. The key is that patients must first undergo cancer gene testing to determine if they are suitable for targeted drug treatment.
Immunotherapy treatment course
Immunotherapy works by activating the patient's own immune system to fight cancer cells. Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky stated that for patients suitable for immunotherapy, some may even achieve a complete cure after treatment. For patients with stage three and four cancer who cannot undergo surgery, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy become the main treatment options.
Treatment plan selection and personalized medicine
The importance of cancer genetic testing
Modern lung cancer treatment emphasizes personalized medicine. Cancer gene testing can identify the genetic characteristics of the tumor, helping doctors develop the most suitable treatment plan for the patient. Tumors with gene mutations are suitable for targeted therapy, while tumors without gene mutations may be considered for immunotherapy.
Comprehensive treatment strategy
Most lung cancer patients are diagnosed at stage three or four, making surgery impossible. At this stage, doctors develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on the patient's specific condition, combining targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, aiming to maximize treatment effectiveness, prolong survival, and improve quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there any hope for treatment in the advanced stage of pulmonary adenocarcinoma?
- Although the five-year survival rate for stage IV lung adenocarcinoma is only 10 to 20%, modern medicine has made significant breakthroughs. Patients fortunate enough to receive targeted therapy can have their condition controlled for years; some patients suitable for immunotherapy can even achieve complete remission of the tumor. The key is early cancer gene testing to develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Who needs to be screened for lung cancer?
- Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky suggests that individuals who smoke regularly or have a family history of lung cancer should begin regular low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans of the chest between the ages of 40 and 50. In addition, individuals with prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke, those with chronic lung diseases, or those experiencing a persistent cough for more than 4 to 6 weeks should also undergo early screening.
- What is the cost of treatment for pulmonary adenocarcinoma?
- The cost of lung cancer treatment varies depending on the treatment plan. The Hong Kong United Oncology Centre offers medication subsidy programs and clinical research programs to help alleviate the financial burden on patients. We recommend that patients consult with us early to understand the costs and funding options for different treatment plans.
- What is the difference between targeted therapy and chemotherapy?
- Targeted therapy targets specific gene mutations in cancer cells, precisely attacking the cancer cells with relatively fewer side effects. Chemotherapy, on the other hand, kills rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells, through medication. Doctors will choose the most suitable treatment plan for patients based on the results of cancer gene testing.
Comprehensive lung cancer treatment services of the United Cancer Centre of Hong Kong
Professional medical team
Dr. Li Yu Chung, a clinical oncologist at the Hong Kong United Oncology Centre, holds professional qualifications including a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Hong Kong, Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (UK), Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of Radiologists, and Fellowship of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Radiology). He has extensive clinical experience in lung cancer diagnosis, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy services.
Personalized treatment concept
The Hong Kong United Oncology Centre adheres to the philosophy of "patient-centered care," tailoring personalized treatment plans for each lung cancer patient. The center establishes independent WhatsApp groups with attending physicians to closely monitor patients' conditions, allowing for communication with doctors even outside of office hours. This ensures that patients receive timely medical support and psychological care throughout their treatment.
Complete cancer diagnosis and treatment services
The center provides one-stop lung cancer treatment services, including：
- Early screening and diagnosis: Low-dose thoracic computed tomography (LDCT)
- Cancer genetic testing: Develop precise and personalized treatment plans
- Multiple treatment options: Targeted treatment options, immunotherapy courses、Chemotherapy treatment plan、Radiology
- Surgical Support: We collaborate with experienced surgeons to provide surgical treatment.
- Drug Subsidy Scheme: Reduce the financial burden on patients
- Clinical research plan: Expose patients to the latest treatment options
Care and support
We understand the impact of cancer diagnosis on patients and their families, so we provide comprehensive psychological support and nursing guidance to help patients through every stage of the treatment process.
Take early action to grasp the golden period of treatment
Although lung adenocarcinoma has a high mortality rate, advancements in modern medicine, particularly breakthroughs in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, have significantly improved patients' survival rates and quality of life. The key lies in early detection and treatment, and choosing a professional medical team to develop a personalized treatment plan.
If you are at high risk or experiencing any suspicious symptoms, please do not delay and contact Hong Kong United Oncology Centre immediately for a professional assessment. Our medical team will provide you with detailed medical advice and assist in developing the most suitable treatment plan.
Contact us
- Telephone：+852 2386 8002
- WhatsApp：+852 5518 2992
- Email：Enquiry@hkuoc.hk
- Address: Rooms 01-06, 20th Floor, 238 Nathan Road, Kowloon (MTR Jordan Station Exit E)