When facing advanced lung cancer, one of the most critical decisions patients and families must make is choosing the right treatment path. As of 2025, two of the most prominent and widely discussed options are immunotherapy and chemotherapy. But which one is truly better for advanced cases? How do they differ? And what are patients experiencing at top facilities like Action Cancer Hospital, known for its world-class Thoracic Oncology department?
Let’s dive into this comprehensive, expert-driven comparison of immunotherapy vs chemotherapy for advanced lung cancer patients in 2025.
1. Understanding Advanced Lung Cancer in 2025
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In 2025, advanced or metastatic lung cancer—where the cancer has spread beyond the lungs—is still a major challenge, though treatment options have vastly improved in recent years.
There are two main types:
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Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) – accounts for about 85% of cases.
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Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) – more aggressive and fast-growing.
Advanced stages (Stage III and IV) typically require systemic treatments because surgery or localized radiation isn’t enough. That’s where chemotherapy and immunotherapy come in.
2. What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a traditional cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. It’s been a standard part of lung cancer treatment for decades.
How It Works:
Chemotherapy drugs circulate in the bloodstream and kill both cancerous and some healthy cells. That’s why side effects are common.
Common Drugs Used in Lung Cancer:
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Cisplatin
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Carboplatin
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Paclitaxel
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Gemcitabine
These are often combined into regimens to increase effectiveness.
3. What Is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a groundbreaking approach that has transformed cancer treatment. Instead of attacking cancer cells directly, it activates the patient’s own immune system to recognize and fight cancer.
How It Works:
The body’s immune system is naturally capable of killing abnormal cells. However, cancer finds ways to "hide." Immunotherapy drugs, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors, block these "hiding spots," allowing the immune system to do its job.
Common Immunotherapy Drugs:
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Nivolumab (Opdivo)
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Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
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Atezolizumab (Tecentriq)
4. Key Differences Between Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy
Let’s break down the main differences between the two therapies:
| Aspect | Chemotherapy | Immunotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Kills fast-growing cells | Activates immune system |
| Target | Cancer and some normal cells | Primarily cancer cells |
| Side Effects | More intense | Milder, immune-related |
| Duration | Cyclical, limited | Often long-term maintenance |
| Effectiveness | Immediate but temporary | May take time, but longer-lasting |
5. Which Treatment Is More Effective in 2025?
At Action Cancer Hospital, the answer isn’t black or white. Effectiveness depends on several factors:
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Type of lung cancer (NSCLC or SCLC)
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Stage of cancer
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Genetic mutations (like EGFR, ALK, or PD-L1 expression levels)
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Overall patient health
Personalized Medicine:
In 2025, treatments are often tailored to the individual’s cancer profile. For example:
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Patients with high PD-L1 expression (≥50%) may respond well to immunotherapy alone.
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Others may need a combination of chemo + immunotherapy.
6. The Rise of Combination Therapy
Recent clinical trials and studies have shown that combining chemotherapy and immunotherapy can be especially effective for certain patients. This is now a standard practice at top cancer centers, including Action Cancer Hospital.
Why Combine Them?
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Chemotherapy reduces tumor burden, making it easier for immunotherapy to work.
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Immunotherapy boosts immune memory, possibly leading to long-term remission.
7. Side Effects: What Should Patients Expect?
Understanding side effects helps patients prepare mentally and physically.
Chemotherapy Side Effects:
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Nausea and vomiting
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Hair loss
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Fatigue
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Low blood counts (anemia, infection risk)
Immunotherapy Side Effects:
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Fatigue
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Rash
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Diarrhea
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In rare cases: immune system attacks on organs (pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis)
At Action Cancer Hospital, patients receive integrated supportive care to manage side effects with nutrition, physiotherapy, and psychological support.
8. Cost and Accessibility in 2025
Chemotherapy:
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Often less expensive and more widely available.
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Covered by most government and private insurance plans.
Immunotherapy:
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Costlier upfront, though long-term costs may be lower due to fewer hospitalizations.
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Still not universally accessible in all Indian hospitals, but Action Cancer Hospital offers affordable access via patient support programs.
9. What Patients Are Saying: Real Experiences
Patient testimonials are a window into real-world outcomes.
“I was terrified of chemo, but the combination of chemo and Keytruda helped me go into remission. The team at Action Cancer Hospital monitored me every step of the way.”
– Ramesh K., 59, NSCLC Stage IV survivor
“Immunotherapy gave me my life back. I had fewer side effects and could continue working part-time. I never thought I'd see my daughter graduate.”
– Seema R., 51, PD-L1 positive lung cancer patient
10. How Action Cancer Hospital Leads in Lung Cancer Care
Located in the heart of Delhi, Action Cancer Hospital has become a pioneer in Thoracic Oncology. Here’s why patients trust them:
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Multidisciplinary teams: Oncologists, radiologists, thoracic surgeons, palliative care experts.
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Access to cutting-edge immunotherapy and targeted treatments.
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Molecular testing and genetic profiling to personalize treatment.
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Supportive care units for nutrition, pain relief, and mental health.
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Transparent costs and patient assistance programs.
11. Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider
Here’s a summary of what patients and families should consider:
✅ Tumor type and genetic profile
✅ Patient’s age and general health
✅ Treatment goals (life extension vs quality of life)
✅ Side effect tolerance
✅ Budget and insurance coverage
✅ Hospital infrastructure and expertise
A consultation at Action Cancer Hospital helps patients explore all of these in detail, supported by advanced diagnostic tools and counseling services.
Conclusion: Immunotherapy or Chemotherapy – What’s Best?
In 2025, the question isn’t “Which is better: chemotherapy or immunotherapy?” but rather “Which is better for YOU?”
Immunotherapy has revolutionized lung cancer care with longer survival rates and fewer side effects. However, chemotherapy still plays a vital role, especially in combination treatments or in cases where immunotherapy isn’t effective.
At Action Cancer Hospital’s Thoracic Oncology Department, the focus is on personalized care—choosing the right treatment plan based on science, experience, and compassion. Whether it’s chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of both, the goal is always the same:
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