Stage IV Lung Cancer Survival Rates

Dear Ask The Doctor: My sister in law was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in September 2009. It has since spread to her bones, liver, spleen, and now her brain. She has 3 spots in her brain, 2 in her cerabellum. They have tried several chemo treatments with no improvement, it has only continued to spread. She is 37 years old, and has 7 children. Can you tell us about how long she has? She will not ask her doctors. They have stopped all treatment and have sent her home. Thank you.

Dear Julie: Survival rates quoted are based on statistical analysis of data. As treatment's improve, survival rates change.  Multiple health and social factors also effect survival rates.

That said, the median stage 4 lung cancer life expectancy  is only around 8 months.  This means that 50% of people with the diagnosis will survive less than 8 months and 50% of people will survive more than 8 months.

The 5-year survival is sadly less than 10%.