Immunotherapy: How many lung cancer patients are 5 yrs post diagnosis?

Hello Sanyogita15,
There are a number of us on this thread who have been diagnosed as stage 2, had surgery, and then chemo. Have they completed genetic testing of your tumor and discussed the whole chemo and subsequent treatment plan?

Hi People, I am new to the group, am from Bangalore, India and recently got robotic done for Stage 2 lung Cancer. Chemo to begin next month. Anyone with the same stage.

My hubby has had 1st treatment and 2nd one scheduled for 26th Febuary. No side affects as yet. 3rd treatment in March then a scan to see if there is any change. At best we are hoping that cancer hasn't grown or spread.

That's an encouraging message - 5 years! Which immunotherapy do you take? Are the side effects manageable? How are you doing?

It has been 13 years since my husband was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. However, he received Keytruda treatments and almost died. He got Pancreatitis which is a known side effect of Keytruda. It was because of our very good primary doctor and prayers, that he got to the right specialist and after a long battle, my husband was fine. However, he says he will never have another Keytruda treatment. The doctors didn't like that decision but it is my husband's body and money! (Keytruda cost $25,000 per infusion! It's probably more now!) He received two infusions per month. That was 6 years ago. My husband is doing great! He's 82 and leaf blows the yard, trims trees, carries heavy garbage bags to the dumpster, drives the car and fixes breakfast, lunch and dinner! We prayed a lot and our prayers were answered.
I would suggest doing as much research on Keytruda as you can before you make a decision. Don't just take what happened to my husband as the only result. Everyone is different when it comes to medication. Once you have a lot of information, then you can decide what is best for you. Pray about it and God will direct you.
I'll remember you in my prayers.
PML

I've added links to other discussions below regarding immunotherapy and side effects. Some members have mentioned significant colitis and pancreatitis. I’m sure your doctors will be watching closely for any issues but be sure to speak up if/when you experience anything that seems out of the ordinary. Many people can benefit from immunotherapy.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/immunotherapy-for-lung-cancer/
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/immunotherapy-and-chemo/

@scared2, Immunotherapy does have the potential for severe side effects, but it also helps many people live longer healthy lives. Your husband's oncologist should know which treatments are a good fit for his situation.
I do know that immunotherapy is sometimes used to treat kidney cancer. But you are correct, there is some risk to the kidneys. I'll be interested to hear the results of his PET and the proposed next steps.

Hi @biebienestar1, That's great news that your nodule has cleared. Your body has been through a lot, and it needs some time to heal. Give yourself some grace, and your strength will return, hopefully with gusto! Were the lymph nodes in the middle of your chest, or further away from the nodule? How soon are they talking about starting the immunotherapy?

@joyelizabeth, I'm sorry that you and your husband are facing this diagnosis. It is difficult for all of us. I hope he responds well. Was he just recently diagnosed?

Hi @3122, I hope your husband is tolerating the immunotherapy, and that it will be effective for him with minimal side effects. Here's a link to another discussion specific to mesothelioma and immunotherapy:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/any-information-on-biphasic-mesothelioma-response-to-immunotherapy/
Was he diagnosed recently? Is the immunotherapy his first treatment?