Lung Cancer in Saudi Arabia: A Growing Health Challenge with Evolving Solutions

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for the highest mortality rates among both men and women . In Saudi Arabia, lung cancer is the fifth most common cancer among Saudi males . Despite its prevalence, many patients experience delays in diagnosis, often leading to detection at advanced stages and reduced chances of long-term survival . Although the incidence of lung cancer in Saudi Arabia is lower compared to some Western countries, it is steadily increasing. With the growing burden of the disease, the importance of early detection, public awareness, and access to innovative treatments has never been greater.

Risk Factors and Early Detection

The primary risk factor for lung cancer is smoking, with second-hand smoke, exposure to environmental toxins, and genetic predispositions also contributing . In Saudi Arabia, increasing tobacco use among youth and adults has become a key concern. Regular screenings, particularly using low-dose CT scans, are essential for detecting the disease early and improving treatment outcomes. 

Dr. Ahmed Allehebi, Chairman of Medical Oncology Scientific Committee at SCFHS and Program Director of Medical Oncology training program and Medical Oncology Consultant at KFSHRC-Jeddah, said, “Early detection remains our most powerful tool in the fight against lung cancer and increasing the chances of long-term survival among patients. While only 14% of cases are diagnosed early in Saudi Arabia , ongoing efforts in awareness, early screening, and education are paving the way for meaningful change. By building on these foundations and empowering both healthcare professionals and the public with the right tools and information, we can drive significant improvements in disease management, patient outcomes, and survival rates.” 

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Lung cancer often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage, due in part to its subtle and non-specific symptoms. Many people don’t have symptoms until the disease is advanced, but some people have symptoms in the early stages. These may include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and chest pain.

Diagnosing lung cancer typically begins with imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans to detect abnormalities in the lungs. If suspicious areas are identified, further procedures like bronchoscopy, where a thin tube is inserted into the lungs to collect tissue samples, or needle biopsies guided by imaging techniques are performed to obtain samples for laboratory analysis. These tests help determine the presence and type of lung cancer, guiding appropriate treatment strategies .

Advancements in Treatment

Recent advances in lung cancer have led to improved patient outcomes, particularly through the use of innovative solutions that activate the body's immune system to combat cancer cells, offering benefits across various stages of lung cancer. Surgical approaches are evolving too, with studies showing that removing a smaller portion of the lung may be just as effective as removing an entire lobe in some early-stage cases.

The treatment landscape for advanced non-small cell lung cancer has dramatically evolved over the past decade. Historically, patients treated with chemotherapy had a median overall survival of just a few months. In contrast, the advent of targeted therapies has extended survival to several years in patients with actionable mutations. This shift marks a new era in lung cancer care, where precision medicine not only improves survival but also enhances quality of life through better symptom control and fewer adverse events. 

Although not suitable for all patients, these therapies represent a significant leap forward in personalized medicine. They are built on novel mechanisms of action that target cancer cells more precisely, reducing the burden of side effects. These advancements are changing how lung cancer is treated and helping many patients achieve better outcomes.

In Saudi Arabia, Johnson & Johnson is committed to advancing lung cancer care by supporting innovative research and introducing localized initiatives such as screening programs. By working closely with regional healthcare providers, the company aims to ensure access to creative solutions and bring hope to patients across the Kingdom.

Francisco Plaza Muñoz, Managing Director of Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Saudi Arabia, said: “Eradicating cancer remains one of the greatest health challenges of our time. At Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, we are deeply committed to advancing lung cancer care in Saudi Arabia by working hand in hand with our healthcare partners to improve patient outcomes. Through clinical research, real-world evidence, and global collaborations, we continue to pioneer patient-centred solutions powered by precision medicine, genomics, and AI-driven innovation.” 

Saudi Arabia's Path Forward

With increased awareness, investment in innovation, and regional collaboration, the fight against lung cancer in Saudi Arabia is gaining ground. Continued progress depends on early screening, equitable access to advanced therapies, and support systems that address the emotional and physical toll on patients and caregivers alike.

As healthcare leaders and organizations come together with a shared vision, there is hope that lung cancer will one day be not a threat – but a conquered challenge.