Staging is the process of finding out how far the cancer has spread. This is very important because your treatment and the outlook for your recovery depend on the stage of your cancer. The tests described above are also used to stage lung cancer. There are different staging systems for small cell and non-small cell lung cancer.

Staging of non-small cell lung cancer

The system used to stage non-small cell lung cancer is the AJCC (American Joint Committee on Cancer) system. Stages are described using Roman numerals from 0 to IV (0 to 4). Some stages are further divided into A and B. As a rule, the lower the number, the less the cancer has spread. A higher number, such as stage IV (4), means a more serious cancer.

After looking at your test results, the doctor will tell you the stage of your cancer. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain your stage in a way you understand. This will help you both decide on the best treatment for you.

Non-small cell lung cancer survival by stage*

* The numbers above are from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, based on people who were diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer between 1988 and 2001.

The 5-year survival rate refers to the percentage of patients who live at least 5 years after their cancer is found. Of course, some patients live much longer than 5 years. Five-year relative survival rates means that people who die of other causes are not included, and the rate only includes people who die from lung cancer.

While these numbers provide an overall picture, keep in mind that every person's situation is unique and the statistics can't predict exactly what will happen in your case. Talk with your cancer care team if you have questions about your own chances of a cure, or how long you might survive your cancer. They know your situation best.

Last Medical Update: 11/11/2008
Last Revised: 11/11/2008