What are the odds of surviving stage 4 lung cancer?

As an oncologist with extensive experience in treating lung cancer, I can provide you with some insights into the survival rates for stage IV lung cancer. It's important to note that survival rates are based on statistical data and individual outcomes can vary greatly depending on a multitude of factors, including the patient's overall health, the specific type of lung cancer, the effectiveness of the treatment, and how the patient responds to the treatment. In stage IV, lung cancer has spread to other parts of the body, which significantly complicates treatment. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, and about 40 percent of these patients are diagnosed at this advanced stage. The five-year survival rate for stage IV lung cancer is less than 10 percent. However, advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapies have improved these odds for some patients, particularly those with specific genetic mutations or characteristics that make their cancer more responsive to these treatments. It's crucial for patients to discuss their prognosis and treatment options with their healthcare team to understand what they can expect and to make informed decisions about their care.

In stage IV, the cancer has metastasized, or spread, beyond the lungs into other areas of the body. About 40 percent of NSCLC patients are diagnosed with lung cancer when they are in stage IV. The five-year survival rate for those diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer is less than 10 percent.