Introduction

Key Points:

• Adjuvant treatment is additional treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, given after surgery to lower the risk of the cancer returning.
  
  
• Chemotherapy after surgery is recommended for patients with stage IIA, IIB, or IIIA non-small cell lung cancer.
  
  
• Radiation therapy is not recommended for stage I or II lung cancer, but may be used for stage IIIA lung cancer in specific situations.
  
  
• Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of adjuvant treatment.

To help doctors give their patients the best possible care, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) asks its medical experts to develop recommendations for specific areas of cancer care. ASCO and Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) together developed recommendations for treatment after surgery for non-small cell lung cancer. This guide for patients is based on their recommendations.

As you read this guide, please keep in mind that every person treated for cancer is different. These recommendations are not meant to replace your judgment or that of your doctor. The final decisions you and your doctors make will be based on your individual circumstances.

Last Updated: March 09, 2009

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