Just diagnosed with Lung Cancer — what should I do first

First Steps After a Lung Cancer Diagnosis

I'm sorry you've received this diagnosis. It's normal to feel overwhelmed right now. Here's what you should focus on in the coming days and weeks:

1. Understand Your Specific Type of Lung Cancer

Your first priority is getting clear answers about what type of lung cancer you have. According to the NCCN Guidelines for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, there are several different types of lung cancer, and they're treated very differently. Ask your care team:

• Is it non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or small cell lung cancer (SCLC)? This is the most important distinction—they have completely different treatment approaches.
• What is the stage? (Early stage, locally advanced, or metastatic/advanced)
• What is the histologic subtype? (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, or other)

2. Get Complete Staging and Testing Done

Your doctors need to understand the full extent of your cancer. According to NCCN Guidelines, this typically includes:

• Imaging studies (CT scans, PET/CT scans) to see where the cancer is located and if it has spread
• Brain MRI to check for cancer spread to the brain
• Biomarker testing (genetic/molecular tests) on your tumor tissue to identify specific mutations or characteristics that may guide treatment options
• Pulmonary function tests to assess how well your lungs work—this is important for treatment planning

The NCCN Guidelines emphasize that tissue diagnosis is important—your doctors may need to do a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and run these biomarker tests.

3. Assemble a Multidisciplinary Team

According to NCCN Guidelines, the best outcomes come from a team approach. Your care team should ideally include:

• Medical oncologist (chemotherapy specialist)
• Thoracic surgeon (lung surgery specialist)
• Radiation oncologist (if radiation is considered)
• Pulmonologist (lung specialist)
• Thoracic radiologist (imaging specialist)

These experts should communicate with each other about your case.

4. Ask These Key Questions

The NCCN Guidelines for Patients recommend asking your care team:

1. What are my treatment options?
2. What will happen if I do nothing?
3. Are you suggesting options other than what NCCN recommends? If yes, why?
4. How do my age, overall health, and other factors affect my options?
5. Does any option offer a cure or long-term cancer control?
6. How long do I have to decide about treatment?
7. Is there a social worker or counselor who can help me?
8. Can I get a second opinion?

5. Address Smoking (If Applicable)

If you smoke, now is the time to quit. According to NCCN Guidelines, quitting smoking may improve your treatment results and overall health. Ask your care team about:

• Smoking cessation counseling
• Medications to help you quit
• Support programs

6. **Get Your [ID removed]

• Ask for copies of all pathology reports, imaging results, and test results
• Request a summary of your diagnosis and staging
• Keep these organized—you may want a second opinion

7. Consider Seeking a Second Opinion

This is completely reasonable and encouraged. Many cancer centers will review your case. A second opinion can:

• Confirm your diagnosis
• Validate the treatment plan
• Identify additional options you might not have considered

8. Build Your Support System

• Identify a trusted family member or friend to attend appointments with you
• Ask about social work services, counseling, or support groups
• Consider connecting with lung cancer advocacy organizations

What NOT to Do Right Now

• Don't make treatment decisions in the first few days—you need complete information
• Don't assume you know what treatment you'll need—it depends on your specific type and stage
• Don't hesitate to ask questions, no matter how basic they seem

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Important Next Steps Timeline

This week: Get copies of all your test results and pathology report. Schedule a comprehensive consultation with your oncology team.

Within 1-2 weeks: Have all staging tests completed so your team can develop a treatment plan.

Before treatment starts: Ask all your questions and make sure you understand your options.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.