Some lung surgeries can be done using minimally invasive techniques, which avoid the large cuts used in traditional open surgery. Instead, surgeons make a few small incisions between the ribs and use a camera and specialized instruments to reach the lungs. There are two approaches:

• Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS): A small camera and instruments are inserted through small openings in the chest.
• Robotic-assisted surgery: The surgeon controls robotic instruments from a console, allowing precise movements through small incisions.

These methods may offer certain benefits compared to open chest surgery, such as smaller scars, less pain and a shorter hospital stay. Not every patient is a candidate for minimally invasive surgery. The decision depends on factors like your medical history, overall health and the specifics of your lung condition.

Lung cancer screening is designed to find cancer early, before symptoms appear, when treatment may be more effective. The only recommended screening test is a low-dose CT scan (LDCT), which uses a small amount of radiation to take detailed images of the lungs. The test is quick and not painful. Current guidelines recommend yearly screening for people who:

• Are between 50 and 80 years old,
• Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history (for example, one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years) and
• Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years.

Lung cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. By the time symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath appear, the disease may already be more advanced. If you think you may qualify for lung cancer screening, talk with your doctor. They can help you understand the benefits, possible risks such as false-positive results and whether screening is right for you.

One of the most important steps you can take for your lung health is to avoid smoking and vaping. Both expose your body to harmful chemicals. Traditional cigarettes are known to damage the lungs and increase the risk of serious disease. E-cigarettes are often seen as a safer option, but research shows they can still harm blood vessels, increase oxidative stress and cause other changes in the body.

Tobacco smoke doesn’t disappear once a cigarette is put out. It leaves behind a residue made up of nicotine and more than 250 chemicals that can stick to clothes, furniture, walls, skin and even pet fur. This third-hand smoke can linger for weeks or months, re-enter the air over time and expose others (especially children and pets) to harmful substances.

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Some lung surgeries can be done using minimally invasive techniques, which avoid the large cuts used in traditional open surgery. Instead, surgeons make a few small incisions between the ribs and use a camera and specialized instruments to reach the lungs. There are two approaches:

• Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS): A small camera and instruments are inserted through small openings in the chest.
• Robotic-assisted surgery: The surgeon controls robotic instruments from a console, allowing precise movements through small incisions.

These methods may offer certain benefits compared to open chest surgery, such as smaller scars, less pain and a shorter hospital stay. Not every patient is a candidate for minimally invasive surgery. The decision depends on factors like your medical history, overall health and the specifics of your lung condition.

What is a low-dose CT scan like?

A low-dose CT scan is a simple imaging test. You lie on a table while a machine takes detailed pictures of your lungs using a small amount of radiation. The process is quick and does not involve needles or special preparation.

Does quitting smoking lower my lung cancer risk right away?

Quitting smoking stops further harm from tobacco and can lower your risk for lung cancer over time. The longer you stay smoke-free, the more your body can recover, though some risks may remain depending on your smoking history.

Can third-hand smoke be harmful if no one is currently smoking nearby?

Yes. Third-hand smoke is residue from tobacco products that can stay on clothing, furniture, walls and even pet fur for weeks or months. This residue can re-enter the air and be inhaled or touched by others, including children and pets.

Are there risks to lung cancer screening?

Lung cancer screening may sometimes lead to false-positive results, where a test suggests cancer when there isn’t any. It may also detect very slow-growing cancers that would not have caused problems, leading to follow-up tests that may not be necessary. The test involves a small amount of radiation exposure. Your doctor can help you understand these risks and whether screening is appropriate for you.

What support is available if I want to quit smoking but find it difficult?

If you're finding it hard to quit smoking, talk with your doctor or another healthcare professional. They can discuss proven options such as quit-smoking medicines, counseling and support programs, including free quitlines like 1-800-QUIT-NOW. A doctor may also help you create a plan to handle cravings, avoid triggers and find healthier ways to cope during the quitting process.

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