There are two main types of primary lung cancer.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This accounts for around 10-15% of lung cancer cases in the UK. It is made up of small round cells and usually starts in the larger airways. These cells reproduce and grow quickly however it is generally more responsive to chemotherapy.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type of lung cancer in the UK. NSCLC are subdivided into three main types:

• Squamous cell cancer –is often found near the centre of the lung in one of the main airways (left or right bronchus).
• Adenocarcinoma – more often seen in the outer parts of the lung. This cancer can produce excess mucus (fluid) in the lungs leading to a chronic cough.
• Large cell carcinoma – generally more aggressive and often arises in the larger air passages. It tends to spread outside the lung at an earlier stage.

There is a number of other rare types of cancer that can occur in the lungs:

Mesothelioma: This most commonly starts in the layers of tissue that cover each lung (the pleura) and is closely associated with asbestos exposure.

Carcinoid tumours: This is a rare tumour where the cancer develops from a special type of cells in the lung called neuroendocrine cells – sometimes this cancer is called a neuroendocrine tumour.

Pancoast tumours: This is a rare tumour that grows at the top of the lung – fewer than 5 in every 100 cases of lung cancer (5%).

Macmillan have information about signs and symptoms of these lung cancers. It is important to be aware that some of the symptoms can be caused by other medical conditions, however, if you have any of these symptoms for more than three weeks, visiting your GP immediately. If it is lung cancer, early diagnosis and treatment could save your life.