Advancements in NSCLC Treatment: Efficacy and Mechanisms of Surgery, Targeted Therapy, and Immunotherapy

Abstract

Lung cancer, the most lethal cancer form across the globe, accounts for nearly 1.8 million death each year. The high mortality rate from lung cancer underscores the critical need for effective treatments even in the face of medical progress. Currently available treatment options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and surgery. This study examines the workings and efficaciousness of the last three treatment in NSCLC. The most effective treatment for early-stage NSCLC continues to be surgical resection, offering high cure rates, especially with procedures like lobectomy and VATS. Targeted therapies have revolutionized treatment by focusing on specific genetic mutations, such as EGFR and ALK. The usage of medications like osimertinib and alectinib has achieved great success. Immunotherapy, which uses immune checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab and nivolumab, has improved the immune system's ability to target cancer cells, opening up new possibilities for long-lasting responses in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. Notwithstanding these developments, problems including immunological-related side effects and medication resistance still exist. The present status of these medicines, their modes of action, and their effects on patient outcomes are highlighted in this paper.