Lung Cancer Care
Rely on skilled providers with experience treating lung cancer at William R. Bliss Cancer Center in Ames, Iowa. Our board-certified lung cancer specialists recommend and provide a full range of advanced treatment options personalized to your diagnosis.
Lung Cancer Conditions We Treat
The two main types of lung cancer are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Each requires a customized treatment approach based on its type, stage, and how far it has spread.
Lung Cancer Screening in Iowa
Low-dose CT scans are painless, non-invasive imaging tools used to check the lungs for early signs of cancer. If you’re a current or former smoker, talk to your doctor about whether you qualify for a CT scan for lung cancer screening—especially if you're over age 50 or have a history of heavy smoking.
Accurate Diagnosis for Lung Cancer
If you have symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer or small cell lung cancer, your doctor may recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- Biopsy – Removes a small tissue sample to confirm cancer
- Blood tests – Evaluate your overall health before treatment
- Genomic (molecular) testing – Analyzes tumor DNA to guide targeted lung cancer therapy
- Imaging tests, such as X-ray, MRI, CT scan, and PET scan – Help visualize tumors and monitor disease progression
Lung Cancer Treatments We Offer
Meet with our lung cancer care team to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Depending on your type, stage, and overall health, you may receive:
- Chemotherapy – Slows or stops the growth of cancer cells
- Immunotherapy or biotherapy – Strengthens your immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells
- Targeted precision therapy – Attacks specific gene mutations in cancer cells to reduce spread and improve outcomes
- Radiation therapy – Kills cancer cells or shrinks tumors before surgery
- Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) – Delivers 1–5 highly focused treatments to small lung tumors with minimal impact on healthy tissue
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) – Treats lung cancer that has spread to the brain, delivering ultra-precise radiation doses using technology similar to CyberKnife® or Gamma Knife®
- Surgery – Removes part or all of the affected lung tissue
- Robotic-assisted lung surgery – Uses smaller incisions for faster recovery when appropriate
- Optune® devices – Use low-intensity electrical fields to slow the growth of glioblastoma or malignant pleural mesothelioma (cancers affecting the lungs and chest wall)
Lung Cancer Clinical Trials in Iowa
Ask your doctor about participating in clinical trials for lung cancer. These studies may give you access to promising treatments not yet widely available, including experimental therapies and immunotherapy combinations.
Lung Cancer Support Services
Talk to your nurse navigator about personalized support throughout your journey. You’ll find help for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, including nutrition counseling, pain management, and survivorship planning.
