Lung cancer is often thought of as a disease that mainly affects older men who smoke, but that is no longer the case. In recent years, the number of women diagnosed with lung cancer has been steadily increasing. According to Cancer Research UK, it’s now one of the most common cancers in women and remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
What many people don’t realise is that lung cancer can occur in women at a younger age than men, and can also occur in non-smokers – studies indicate that around 20% of women with lung cancer have never smoked.
Some symptoms may be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, which is why awareness is so crucial. Recognising the early warning signs could make a lifesaving difference, as early diagnosis often leads to more effective, less invasive treatment options.
At Welbeck, our expert lung specialists provide comprehensive screening and advanced diagnostic services designed to detect lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages, giving every patient the best possible start to their care journey.
Symptoms of lung cancer in women
While men and women may experience many of the same lung cancer symptoms, women often report subtle differences in how these symptoms appear or progress. Understanding these variations can help ensure that warning signs are not overlooked.
Early signs and symptoms
These may be mild at first and easily mistaken for common respiratory issues:
- a persistent cough that doesn’t go away or changes over time
- shortness of breath, even with light activity
- hoarseness or changes in voice
- chest discomfort or mild pain
- unexplained fatigue or lack of energy
- recurrent chest infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia
- coughing up small amounts of blood or rust-coloured phlegm
Advanced symptoms
As the disease progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable and severe:
- persistent chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
- noticeable weight loss or loss of appetite
- bone pain (especially in the back, ribs, or hips)
- headaches or neurological changes if the cancer has spread
- swelling of the face or neck
- difficulty swallowing
Women are more likely to experience coughing, shortness of breath, overwhelming fatigue, and back, chest, or shoulder pain.
Lung cancer in women versus men
Although lung cancer affects both men and women, there are notable differences in how the disease develops and progresses:
Incidence and prognosis
- women are now nearly as likely as men to develop lung cancer, despite historically lower smoking rates. However, women have begun smoking in greater numbers over the past 60 years
- some studies suggest that women may respond better to targeted therapies and have slightly higher survival rates in certain lung cancer subtypes
- non-smoking-related lung cancer is more common in women than in men
Risk factors
While smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, additional factors appear to play a greater role in women:
- genetic mutations (such as EGFR mutations) are more frequent in women, particularly non-smokers
- hormonal influences – oestrogen may play a role in lung cancer development and progression
- exposure to secondhand smoke or indoor air pollutants
- environmental and occupational exposures (such as asbestos).
Lung cancer by age
Lung cancer risk increases with age for both men and women, with the highest incidence around 70 to 74 years old, but women are sometimes diagnosed at a slightly younger age.
- some studies suggest that non-smoking women may develop certain lung cancers at a younger age than their male counterparts
- overall, women under 50 now represent a growing proportion of new cases
How is lung cancer screened for in women?
Regular screening is especially important for women, as lung cancer in women is often diagnosed at a later stage and can occur even in those with little or no history of smoking. Detecting cancer early, before symptoms appear, can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
At Welbeck, early detection is a priority. Our Lung Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Service provides rapid access to state-of-the-art imaging, experienced specialists, and personalised assessments, ensuring any abnormalities are identified and investigated quickly.
How lung cancer is diagnosed at Welbeck
Diagnosis begins with a detailed consultation and clinical assessment, during which our specialists will review your medical history, symptoms, and potential risk factors.
Depending on your needs, the diagnostic process may include a low-Dose CT (LDCT) scan. This is a highly sensitive imaging test that can detect nodules or changes in lung tissue, often before symptoms develop.
Our specialists then provide a comprehensive report and tailored recommendations, whether that involves continued monitoring, further testing, or immediate referral for treatment.
How is lung cancer treated?
While we do not currently offer lung cancer treatment at Welbeck, your diagnosing consultant will discuss your case at an expert MDT and ensure that you’re referred to the oncology team of your choice so that the next steps can be started as quickly as possible.
Why choose Welbeck?
At Welbeck, we provide expert, compassionate, and fast-track care for anyone concerned about their lung health.
Here’s why patients choose us:
- dedicated lung cancer service offering early detection and rapid results
- best-in-field specialists with expertise across oncology and respiratory medicine
- multidisciplinary care ensures every patient benefits from a team approach
- rapid access to diagnostics and treatment with minimal waiting times
- cutting-edge technology and advanced therapies
- personalised, patient-centred care focused on the best possible outcomes
Early detection saves lives. If you’re concerned about symptoms or would like to discuss lung cancer screening, contact Welbeck’s specialist team today to arrange an appointment.
bookings.lunghealth@onewelbeck.com