Lung cancer is the most common malignancy worldwide due to its high incidence and mortality rates, largely attributed to tobacco smoking, which is the leading risk factor. It often presents at an advanced stage, making early surgical resection challenging but crucial for limited-stage disease. The primary surgical treatment involves lobectomy with systematic lymph node dissection. Surgical intervention offers the best chance for cure in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), emphasizing the significance of early diagnosis and operative management. Despite advances, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death globally, underscoring the importance of prevention and screening in high-risk populations.

Reference: Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 21st Edition.