Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% of cases. In the U.S., incidence has declined, but it remains the top cause of death. NSCLC is more common in former smokers than current smokers, especially in countries like China, where smoking rates are rising. Risk factors include cigarette smoking, secondhand smoke, diet, alcohol, lack of exercise, and air pollution. Occupational exposure to carcinogens also increases risk. Genetic factors, such as mutations in the TP53 and EGFR genes, contribute to familial clustering of lung cancer. Accurate staging using CT or PET is crucial for treatment. Surgery is the most effective option for early-stage NSCLC, but 70% of patients present with advanced disease. Chemotherapy and radiation are used for metastatic cases, while targeted therapies like EGFR inhibitors (e.g., gefitinib, erlotinib) and anti-angiogenesis agents (e.g., bevacizumab) improve outcomes for certain patients. Radiation therapy is used for inoperable cases, with stereotactic and hadron therapy showing promise. Survival is influenced by tumor differentiation, smoking cessation, and molecular markers. Long-term survivors face increased risks of recurrence and new cancers. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. Advances in genetics and targeted therapies are improving survival rates, but challenges remain in early detection and personalized treatment.Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% of cases. In the U.S., incidence has declined, but it remains the top cause of death. NSCLC is more common in former smokers than current smokers, especially in countries like China, where smoking rates are rising. Risk factors include cigarette smoking, secondhand smoke, diet, alcohol, lack of exercise, and air pollution. Occupational exposure to carcinogens also increases risk. Genetic factors, such as mutations in the TP53 and EGFR genes, contribute to familial clustering of lung cancer. Accurate staging using CT or PET is crucial for treatment. Surgery is the most effective option for early-stage NSCLC, but 70% of patients present with advanced disease. Chemotherapy and radiation are used for metastatic cases, while targeted therapies like EGFR inhibitors (e.g., gefitinib, erlotinib) and anti-angiogenesis agents (e.g., bevacizumab) improve outcomes for certain patients. Radiation therapy is used for inoperable cases, with stereotactic and hadron therapy showing promise. Survival is influenced by tumor differentiation, smoking cessation, and molecular markers. Long-term survivors face increased risks of recurrence and new cancers. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. Advances in genetics and targeted therapies are improving survival rates, but challenges remain in early detection and personalized treatment.