Treating Lung Cancer with Photodynamic Therapy

I’m constantly amazed at the information I find on the technological advancements for treating cancer – one such treatment I came across is known to be an effective way to combat lung cancer: PDT or photodynamic therapy.  Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in the world, affecting over 350,000 Americans in 2004 according to the National Cancer Institute.  Photodynamic therapy uses low-level light beams to eliminate cancer cells, which have been treated with a light-sensitive medication.  The medication can be injected into the patient, which is then absorbed by the cancer cells.  The light beam is then focused on the specific area of the lungs requiring treatment.  The cancer cells containing the medication react to the light beam by creating a chemical-inducing component that kills the cancer cells.  Photodynamic therapy allows for a less invasive treatment such as surgery, which effectively minimizes scarring.  In addition, PDT can be applied numerous times compared to radiation therapy.  While the treatment is still fairly new, research efforts are ongoing to refine the procedure and make it more effective in treating more advanced cases of lung cancer.  For more information on PDT, visit the National Cancer Institute.

3 Responses to “Treating Lung Cancer with Photodynamic Therapy”

1. Антон Павлович says:

   March 18, 2010 at 7:54 am

     Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in the world, affecting over 350,000 Americans in 2004 according […….

   Какой занимательный вопрос…
2. Kylie Batt says:

   April 11, 2010 at 9:22 pm

   Поздравляю, какие слова…, великолепная мысль…

     Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in the world, affecting over 350,000 Americans in 2004 according […….
3. Kylie Batt says:

   May 3, 2010 at 3:26 am

   не очень…

     Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in the world, affecting over 350,000 Americans in 2004 according […….