Top Lung Cancer News and Research Highlights from September 2025

As we approach Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November, it’s important to reflect on the latest developments and insights in lung cancer research.

Last month’s top articles highlight breakthroughs in treatment, the impact of patient-led advocacy, strategies for managing side effects and personal stories of survival. Each selection emphasizes the ongoing advances in care and the critical role of patient engagement in managing lung cancer.

Shared Decision Making in ALK‑Positive NSCLC

Nancee Pronsati, who was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after years of chronic bronchitis and misdiagnoses, turned her personal experience into a resource for the broader lung cancer community.

Alongside clinicians and other ALK-positive patients, she co-authored the paper “Managing Lorbrena [lorlatinib] together: an overview and practical guide for patients by ALK-positive NSCLC patients and medical experts.” The paper provides a detailed guide on managing side effects and encouraging shared decision making between patients and healthcare providers.

“Being diagnosed with cancer can be lonesome and scary. Even if you have a fantastic support system, they don't all understand and this is probably applicable to any kind of cancer, as many of the questions in the paper could be applicable to at least help people understand shared decision making,” Pronsati said. “By joining a support group, looking for resources, reading documents like this, you can control so much of your own journey through this and at least be informed, educated and make it easier on yourself and your family.”

Lung Cancer Basics for Newly Diagnosed Patients

This article serves as a comprehensive primer for individuals newly diagnosed with lung cancer, covering the two main types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer.

As readers learn about the diagnostic process, experts highlight the rapid evolution of treatment, including the development of antibody-drug conjugates and targeted therapies for specific genetic mutations.

A Lung Cancer Survivor’s Story of Remission and Purpose

Sue McCarthy shares her experience overcoming stage 3B lung cancer, reflecting on the impact of her diagnosis. After undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy, she achieved remission and describes a renewed sense of purpose.

“I had a CT scan, and it showed my lungs were cancer free. I had reached remission! I was so thankful, so grateful and soon my lifestyle would change. I would start to learn to thrive, and slowly but surely, I began to experience more and more joy and fulfillment,” McCarthy said in the article.

Acupressure for Cancer Treatment–Related Nausea: Self-Care Strategies for Lung Cancer Patients

For patients dealing with nausea and vomiting from cancer treatments, acupressure may offer relief. Applying pressure to the P-6 (Neiguan) point on the inner wrist can help reduce symptoms, providing immediate benefits when performed at the onset of nausea.

Linda E. Carlson, PhD, explains that this method can complement conventional antiemetic medications and may reduce the need for additional drugs.

“There is a type of self-acupressure that a person can do, like in preparation when they're going into chemotherapy, for example, they can do this. It's effective immediately in the moment when you're starting to feel those symptoms,” noted Carlson, who holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

FDA Approves Subcutaneous Keytruda (Keytruda Qlex) for NSCLC and Solid Tumors

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Keytruda Qlex, a subcutaneous form of pembrolizumab combined with berahyaluronidase alfa, for adults and pediatric patients aged 12 and older with approved solid tumor indications, including NSCLC.

The subcutaneous injection allows for faster administration, potentially improving patient convenience and comfort compared with the traditional intravenous form. Overall outcomes were similar to IV administration.

References

1. From Patient to Author: Emphasizing Shared Decision Making in NSCLC, by Gina Mauro. CURE. https://www.curetoday.com/view/from-patient-to-author-emphasizing-shared-decision-making-in-nsclc
2. Lung Cancer Basics for Newly Diagnosed Patients, by Spencer Feldman. CURE. https://www.curetoday.com/view/lung-cancer-basics-for-newly-diagnosed-patients
3. How Lung Cancer Helped to Save My Life, by Sue McCarthy. CURE. https://www.curetoday.com/view/how-lung-cancer-helped-to-save-my-life
4. Acupressure May Relieve Nausea, Vomiting for Patients With Cancer, by Alex Biese. CURE. https://www.curetoday.com/view/acupressure-may-relieve-nausea-vomiting-for-patients-with-cancer
5. FDA Approves Subcutaneous Keytruda in Adult and Pediatric Solid Tumors, by Ryan Scott. CURE. https://www.curetoday.com/view/fda-approves-subcutaneous-keytruda-in-adult-and-pediatric-solid-tumors

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