What is adenocarcinoma lung cancer?
Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 40 percent of all cases. It develops in the glandular cells that produce mucus, which are found in the smaller airways and air sacs (alveoli) of your lungs, typically along the outer edges.
This type of cancer tends Show Full Answer
What is adenocarcinoma lung cancer?
Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 40 percent of all cases. It develops in the glandular cells that produce mucus, which are found in the smaller airways and air sacs (alveoli) of your lungs, typically along the outer edges.
This type of cancer tends to grow more slowly than other lung cancers and is more likely to develop in women and people between ages 20 and 46. Importantly, it's less strongly associated with smoking compared to other lung cancer types, making it more common in nonsmokers as well.
Risk factors include:
* Smoking (though less associated than other types)
* Air pollution
* Secondhand smoke exposure
* Asbestos, radon, or workplace chemical exposure
* Family history of lung cancer
* Previous chest radiation therapy
Common symptoms can affect both your lungs and other parts of your body:
* Persistent cough (sometimes with blood)
* Shortness of breath or wheezing
* Chest pain
* Fatigue and weakness
* Unexplained weight loss
* Changes in mucus color or production
The good news is that adenocarcinoma generally has a better outlook than other types of non-small cell lung cancer, especially when caught early. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
October 28, 2025
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