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Contrary to popular belief, the deadliest cancer for women is lung cancer, not breast cancer (even though it’s the most common cancer in women). In the United States, about 40 percent more females die from lung cancer each year than from breast cancer, according to Wolters Kluwer UpToDate. The good news: Lung cancer survival rates are improving. With a decline in cigarette smoking plus greater access and awareness of lung cancer screening, lung cancer is becoming more treatable and less deadly.
All people with lung cancer share many risk factors and treatment options. However, there are some key differences regarding how lung cancer may affect women versus men.
Lung cancer affects about 1 in 17 women worldwide, according to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. In the United States, about 116,000 women a year are diagnosed with lung cancer. Lung adenocarcinoma — the most common type — is more likely to affect females than males, according to Wolters Kluwer UpToDate. Males are more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma. Both types are forms of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Tobacco smoke is by far the biggest risk factor for lung cancer. Researchers estimate that 80 percent of females with lung cancer currently or used to smoke, according to Wolters Kluwer UpToDate. However, lung cancer can also affect people who’ve never smoked. The following factors are also linked to a higher risk of lung cancer:
Among people who don’t smoke, women are more likely than men to get lung cancer. In the United States, 19 percent of females but just 9 percent of males with lung cancer have no history of smoking, according to Wolters Kluwer UpToDate. In addition, females who smoke seem more prone to lung cancer than males who smoke.
Hormone therapy for menopause may also play a role. Some studies suggest that taking estrogen plus progestin therapy slightly raises the risk of developing lung cancer or dying from complications. Estrogen therapy alone doesn’t seem to have the same effect. Although more cancer research is needed, some health experts recommend stopping hormone therapy after a lung cancer diagnosis.
If you think you may be at risk, ask your healthcare provider about lung cancer screening. Even if you’ve never smoked, you may qualify for screening, especially if you’ve had prolonged exposure to radon, asbestos, or secondhand smoke. The recommended test is a low-dose computed tomography scan, which takes a three-dimensional image of the lungs and can help catch cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.
Men and women often experience the same lung cancer symptoms, which can vary widely from person to person. Some people notice several symptoms early on, while others don’t have any until the cancer has advanced. Common symptoms include:
Other possible symptoms include hoarseness, bone pain, and chronic bronchitis or pneumonia that doesn’t get better with antibiotics. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms and follow up if you feel your concerns aren’t being addressed.
Members of MyLungCancerTeam have described their symptoms in different ways. “I had no symptoms at all,” one member said. “It was my cardiologist who scanned me for my aortic heart valve defect. That caught the lung cancer.”
“I had coughing spells yesterday. They make my back and shoulder hurt. I use a pillow pressed on my stomach and chest to kind of help the pain when I start coughing like crazy,” another member said.
Discussing symptoms with your doctor can help you find ways to manage them and improve your quality of life.
Men and women receive similar lung cancer treatment plans. An oncologist recommends treatment options based on the cancer type and stage, along with the person’s overall health. Common treatments include:
Side effects from lung cancer treatment can affect daily life in various ways. People may experience changes in how they look and feel, which can have an impact on relationships, social life, career, and self-esteem.
Cancer treatment commonly leads to hair loss, which can be a major concern. Some people choose to shave their head or wear a wig, hat, or scarf.
Although hair loss can be difficult to cope with, one member of MyLungCancerTeam offered encouragement. “I lost most of my hair. Now, it’s darker and curlier than when I started this journey. It’s also thicker. It’s amazing 😍. So to everyone who worries about losing your hair, do not fret,” they said. “In the meantime, your hospital will give you a wig, hats, scarves, etc. Just stay positive, believe and pray, and stay strong during your weakest moments.”
Not all treatments cause hair loss. For example, immunotherapy typically causes little or none.
Fatigue and muscle weakness are also typical with cancer treatment. A sudden lack of energy can be especially challenging for people who care for children, older parents, or a partner. It’s important to ask for help and accept support from others.
Lung cancer can make it difficult to keep working and may change your relationships. Some people take early retirement or long breaks from work, which can affect finances and social connections. If some friends and family seem unsupportive in response to your cancer diagnosis, you may feel isolated or depressed. Finding support and resources can make a big difference when you’re managing the ups and downs of life with lung cancer.
On MyLungCancerTeam, people share their experiences with lung cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Have you received a lung cancer diagnosis? If so, how do the symptoms of lung cancer affect your daily life? Let others know in the comments below.
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