Best Pulmonologists for Lung Cancer Near Dr. Phillips in Orlando, FL

Understanding Lung Cancer Risks for Nonsmokers

Lung cancer has long been considered a smoker's disease. But rising rates in nonsmokers highlight that anyone can develop lung tumors. Actress Kate Micucci recently shared her surprising lung cancer diagnosis despite never smoking.

Micucci's Video Reveals Misconceptions

Micucci, known for roles in Raising Hope and The Big Bang Theory, posted a TikTok video about her cancer experience. As a nonsmoker with no family history, the diagnosis shocked her. This story reflects growing data on lung cancer in unusual demographics.

Causes Beyond Smoking

Smoking remains the top risk factor for lung cancer, causing 80-90% of cases. But the disease still strikes nonsmokers due to:

• Secondhand smoke exposure
• Radon gas
• Workplace chemical fumes
• Pollution
• Genetics

Research shows up to 20% of patients never smoked. So do not rule out lung cancer with vague respiratory symptoms.

Seeing a Pulmonologist for Lung Health

A pulmonologist specializes in lung conditions like infections, COPD, asthma, pulmonary hypertension, and interstitial lung disease. They also diagnose and treat all types of lung cancer.

Diagnosing Lung Tumors

Pulmonologists determine if respiratory complaints stem from lung cancer versus other problems like pneumonia. They perform tests like:

• Imaging tests - Xrays, CT scans, PET scans, MRIs
• Lung function tests - spirometry, gas diffusion testing
• Tissue biopsies - bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, surgery

Types of Lung Cancer

Based on cellular features and location, pulmonologists categorize lung cancer as:

• Small cell lung cancer
• Non-small cell lung cancer
  • Adenocarcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Large cell carcinoma

These types grow and spread differently, requiring tailored treatment plans.

Developing Treatment Plans

After confirming a diagnosis, pulmonologists create an appropriate lung cancer treatment strategy. This may mix options like:

• Surgery - remove tumor and lymph nodes
• Chemotherapy - intravenous drugs kill cancer cells
• Radiation - high energy beams target tumors
• Targeted therapies - drugs attacking genetic mutations
• Immunotherapy - boosts immune system to fight cancer
• Palliative care - managing pain and symptoms

They adjust approaches over time based on response and cancer stage.

Finding a Pulmonologist Near Dr. Phillips

The Dr. Phillips area of Orlando, FL has excellent pulmonology groups to assist with serious lung conditions. Ask your primary care physician or search online ratings sites to find top rated specialists accepting new patients.

Orlando Health Pulmonary Critical Care

This large practice based at Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital sees patients at several office locations. Their experienced respiratory doctors treat all lung diseases. Services include:

• Lung cancer care
• COPD management
• Pulmonary rehabilitation programs
• Sleep disorder testing
• Cough clinics

Schedule consultations or second opinions for complex lung cancer cases. Multidisciplinary teams develop customized treatment plans combining surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials participation.

Borland Groover Pulmonology Clinic

This independent central Florida based clinic offers comprehensive pulmonology services. Their board certified lung health experts diagnose and treat problems like:

• Lung cancer
• Pulmonary nodules
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis

An on-site CAT scan helps detect lung tumors early. Access specialist second opinions for ambiguous scan results. The clinic participates in many regional clinical trials investigating innovative nonsmall cell lung cancer medications.

Lung Cancer Center of Central Florida

This group dedicated specifically to lung cancer care has convenient South Orlando locations. Fellowship trained thoracic oncology doctors provide complete care including:

• Cancer screening
• Biopsies
• PET/CT scans
• Minimally invasive surgeries
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Clinical trials

Schedule an appointment to develop patient-centered treatment plans reflecting the latest lung cancer research. Genomic testing helps match targeted therapies based on your tumors unique genetic profile.

Selecting the Best Lung Specialist

Choosing the right pulmonologist and lung cancer team significantly impacts prognosis and quality of life. Use these criteria for selecting cancer care doctors near Dr. Phillips:

Hospital Affiliations

Pick pulmonologists affiliated with highly ranked hospitals like Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. This reflects access to multidisciplinary thoracic surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology experts to customize nonsmall cell lung cancer treatment.

Fellowship Trained

Verify doctors completed additional fellowship training dedicated specifically to lung health specialties like critical care or cancer. This advanced education better equips them to tackle complex lung tumor cases.

Ongoing Lung Cancer Research

Ask if the pulmonologist actively researches lung cancer or participates in clinical trials of emerging therapies. Associating with an investigator keeps you abreast of promising new developments.

Genomic Tumor Testing

Precision medicine revolutionized nonsmall cell lung cancer treatment for many patients. Ensure your team reflexively analyzes tumor genetics after diagnosis to enable matched targeted drugs.

Lung Cancer Care Tailored to Your Needs

While daunting, a lung cancer diagnosis no longer means certain death even for nonsmokers. Selecting specialists like pulmonologists near Dr. Phillips facilitates access to less toxic emerging treatments. Find a compassionate lung health team to optimize quality survival.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.