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Locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) usually refers to patients with Stage III disease. Approximately one-third of patients with non-small cell lung cancer have locally advanced disease by the time they are diagnosed.

Stage IIIA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

The treatment options for patients with Stage IIIA NSCLC depend upon the specific clinical circumstances. Surgery alone may the main treatment modality if the tumor is considered to be operable. If the tumor is inoperable (cannot be surgically removed), external beam radiation therapy alone or combined with chemotherapy may used for treatment. For patients who are considered to be candidates for chemotherapy, the most widely used drugs are platinum-based chemotherapy regimens.

Stage IIIB Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Surgery alone is usually not a treatment option for patients with Stage IIIB NSCLC. Treatment options include either external beam radiation therapy alone, chemotherapy alone, or a combination of these treatments. Studies have shown an advantage in terms of survival for patients with inoperable Stage IIIB NSCLC who were treated with combination therapy consisting of radiation therapy plus cisplatin-based chemotherapy as compared to radiation therapy alone.

The 5-year survival rate for patients with Stage IIIA NSCLC has been estimated to be 13% while the 5-year survival rate for patients with Stage IIIB NSCLC has been estimated to be about 5%. Patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer may wish to consult with their oncologist about the potential risks and benefits of entering into a clinical trial. Information regarding ongoing clinical studies in your area can be obtained at:

• Clinical Trials Listing Service: http://www.centerwatch.com.
• Cancer Clinical Trials: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov