Zero-Stage Lung Cancer

April 24, 2025

Zero-stage lung cancer, also known as Stage 0 lung cancer or carcinoma in situ, represents the earliest form of lung cancer. In 2023, veteran actor Sharmila Tagore publicly shared her personal battle with this condition. This stage is characterised by the presence of abnormal cells in the lining of the airways without invasive growth.

What is Zero-Stage Lung Cancer?

Zero-stage lung cancer is a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) variant. It indicates that cancerous cells are confined to the inner lining of the lungs. These cells have not yet invaded surrounding tissues or spread to lymph nodes or other body parts. Early detection is crucial as it is highly treatable and often curable.

Types of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

NSCLC is classified into three main types based on cell structure:

Adenocarcinoma: Most common type.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originates in the flat cells lining the airways.
Large Cell Carcinoma: Characterised by large, abnormal cells.

All types can be detected at zero stage.

Staging of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is staged using the TNM system:

T (Tumour): Size and location of the tumour.
N (Nodes): Involvement of lymph nodes.
M (Metastasis): Spread of cancer to other body parts.

The stages range from 0 to IV, with Stage 0 being the least severe and Stage IV indicating advanced, metastatic cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Zero-stage lung cancer often presents no noticeable symptoms. However, some may include persistent cough, changes in voice or hoarseness, occasional blood in sputum, wheezing or shortness of breath, and mild chest discomfort.

Prevention Strategies

While not all cases can be prevented, risk can be reduced through:

Avoiding Smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer.
Limiting Exposure: Avoid harmful substances like radon and asbestos.
Healthy Diet: Consume antioxidant-rich foods.
Regular Exercise: Improves lung function
Routine Screenings: Especially for smokers or those with a family history.

Treatment Options

Treatment for zero-stage lung cancer usually involves:

Surgical Removal: Techniques like wedge resection to remove the abnormal cells
Photodynamic Therapy: Uses light-sensitive drugs to destroy cancer cell
Monitoring: In some cases, doctors may choose to monitor slow-growing lesions without immediate treatment.
Chemotherapy and radiation are rarely used at this stage unless there is a recurrence.