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Thoracic Cancer

General Information

Cancer that affects the glands, organs and structures in your chest or thoracic cavity is called thoracic cancer. There are several types of thoracic cancer, including mesothelioma, lung cancer and thymus cancer. One of the main risk factors for developing thoracic cancer is smoking. In fact, smoking causes 90 percent of lung cancers and increases your risk of several others.

Whether you’ve been diagnosed or are at high risk for thoracic cancer, Goshen Center for Cancer Care can help. Not only do we provide leading-edge treatments with integrated therapies, but we can also help you prevent thoracic cancer with screenings and a smoking cessation program.

Our team cares for your complete well-being every step of the way.

Thoracic cancer symptoms to look out for

The specific type of cancer and the tissue and nearby healthy structures it affects determine which thoracic cancer symptoms you experience. It’s likely you won’t notice any symptoms until the cancer is advanced and you’re diagnosed. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor if you have signs of thoracic cancer, including:

  • A new, persistent cough that gets worse over time
  • Changes in a chronic cough or smoker’s cough
  • Coughing up blood or rust-colored mucus
  • Chest pain that gets worse with laughing, coughing or breathing
  • Hoarseness
  • Indigestion, heartburn or vomiting
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss

Treatment for all types of thoracic cancer

At Goshen Center for Cancer Care, you receive treatment from a fully integrated team of experts. Not only do our oncologists provide traditional treatments to get rid of the cancer, but our naturopathic physicians and mind-body counselors care for your mental and emotional health.

Traditional thoracic cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy. You and your care team work together to create an effective treatment plan that also considers your personal preferences.

Resources

Ten important questions to ask before treatment

You can request an informative packet with ten important questions to ask before cancer treatment to help you determine the best steps to take.

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