Lung cancer comes in many pathological types, with squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) being the most common. It is important to note that SCLC is highly malignant and often metastasizes early. Data shows that over 67% of SCLC patients have evident extrapulmonary metastases at the time of diagnosis. Common sites of metastasis include the brain, liver, and bones.
Although SCLC is not as difficult to treat as pancreatic cancer, it is still highly aggressive. Despite its high sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, most patients eventually experience metastasis and spread. Nearly all SCLC patients show a tendency for systemic spread at the time of diagnosis.
Early screening is crucial, especially for long-term smokers who are at higher risk of developing SCLC. Smokers should have regular chest check-ups at the hospital, and quitting smoking as early as possible is highly recommended.