# What is the difference between small cell and non-small cell lung cancer?

Source: https://oncologyistanbul.com/answers/small-cell-vs-non-small-cell-lung-cancer
Last updated: 2026-07-13

According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI), lung cancer has two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NCI states that NSCLC is more common than SCLC; its main forms — squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma — are made up of different kinds of cancer cells that grow and spread in different ways. SCLC, by contrast, is a fast-growing cancer that can grow and spread quickly, often reaching other parts of the body early. NCI adds that smoking tobacco, now or in the past, is the most important risk factor for lung cancer. This is general information, not personal medical advice.

## Verify at
- [Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ) — Patient Version](https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/non-small-cell-lung-treatment-pdq) — National Cancer Institute (NCI) (checked 2026-07-13)
- [Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ) — Patient Version](https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/small-cell-lung-treatment-pdq) — National Cancer Institute (NCI) (checked 2026-07-13)

Related: [Lung cancer treatment options](https://oncologyistanbul.com/cancers/lung)