Private Lung Cancer Treatment in London - Fast Access, Expert Care
Clear answers. Fast action. Personal care.
A lung cancer diagnosis brings uncertainty, fear and an urgent need for clear answers. You shouldn't have to wait weeks to understand your treatment options or begin care. Whether you're searching for yourself, supporting someone you love, or seeking a second opinion on a lung cancer diagnosis or treatment plan, fast access to expert, personalised care can make all the difference.
I offer same-day or next-day consultations, in person at leading London hospitals or by video from anywhere in the UK or internationally. My approach is comprehensive, evidence-based and built around you. No waiting lists. No confusion. Just clarity, compassion and the lung cancer treatment you need, when you need it.
The hardest part of a lung cancer diagnosis isn't the cancer itself - it's the uncertainty, the waiting, and feeling like you're supposed to become an expert overnight when you're already overwhelmed. You don't have to do this alone, and you don't have to wait weeks to get started.
You're in the Right Place, Whatever Stage You're At
I offer comprehensive lung cancer care at every stage of disease. Whether your cancer is early, locally advanced or has spread, I can provide you with treatment aimed at the best possible outcome using the most advanced technology available in the UK.
I trained at the University of Oxford, the Royal Marsden Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, and served as a consultant at UCLH and honorary associate professor at UCL before moving into full-time private practice to offer patients faster access to the most advanced treatments.
The best treatment for lung cancer depends on your cancer's stage, location, and your overall health. Here's an overview of the approaches I use for lung cancer at each stage - from curative treatment for early disease to strategic care for advanced cancer.
Every treatment plan is personalised. These are the primary approaches for each stage, but your specific plan will be tailored to your cancer type, molecular profile, and individual circumstances.
Expert Lung Cancer Treatment in London: Fast Access Without the NHS Wait
The worst part isn't the diagnosis itself - it's the waiting. Waiting weeks for appointments, waiting for scan results, waiting to understand what "stage 3" actually means for you. Meanwhile, everyone tells you different things, and you're supposed to become an instant expert on treatments you'd never heard of two weeks ago.
Here's what I promise: You won't wait months to start treatment. You won't leave a consultation confused. And you won't have to become a medical expert to make good decisions - it's my job to do that with you.
The time between diagnosis and treatment is agonising. Let's make it as short as possible.
Here's what you can expect from Dr James Wilson - your private lung cancer oncologist:
Same or next-day consultations so you're not stuck in limbo
Clear explanations in plain English of your diagnosis, stage, and all your options
Fast access to scans and tests (24-28 hours, not weeks)
Treatment starting within days once you've decided on your plan
Transparent costs upfront if you're self-paying, no surprises
Your lung cancer treatment plan
Step 1
Fast Initial Consultation
Step 2
Test Results & Review
Step 3
Personalised Treatment Plan
Step 4
Targeted Cancer Treatment
Step 5
Follow-Up Care and Support
Our Reviews
What our patients say
I arrived to the Harley Street clinic confused, concerned and rather stressed, having been diagnosed with lung cancer and with the journey from South Wales. After just 5 minutes of sitting with Dr James Wilson I felt completely reassured and well 'joyful' at knowing my cancer is curable, to be told not to worry and that 'we need to make you well again' was what I needed to hear.
Doctify review
Treatment Explained: Watch My Stage-by-Stage Guide
Stage 1
Stage 1 Lung Cancer Treatment
In this video, I explain your treatment options for stage 1 lung cancer, including SABR, surgery and how we decide which approach is right for you based on your overall health and the tumour's location in your lung.
Stage 2
Stage 2 Lung Cancer Treatment
Learn about treatment approaches for stage 2 lung cancer, including the role of perioperative chemotherapy and immunotherapy in targeting cancer cells that may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 3
Stage 3 Lung Cancer Treatment
I explain how chemoradiotherapy, proton beam therapy and immunotherapy work together for locally advanced lung cancer, and how we can treat with curative intent even in challenging cases.
Stage 4
Stage 4 Lung Cancer Treatment
Discover how modern systemic therapy medicines, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy, combined with SABR for oligometastatic disease, are transforming outcomes for advanced lung cancer.
Proton Beam Therapy: Advanced Radiation Therapy for Lung Cancer
Why Dr James Wilson offers proton beam therapy for lung cancer treatment
Proton beam therapy is one of the most advanced forms of radiation therapy available, and I'm one of only a handful of specialists in the UK who can offer it for lung cancer treatment.
Unlike conventional radiation therapy, proton beam therapy stops exactly at the tumour without passing through to damage tissue behind it.
Proton beam therapy is particularly valuable for stage 3 lung cancer, where the tumour is close to vital structures like the heart or major blood vessels.
If you've been told your cancer can't be treated with curative intent, or if you're concerned about possible side effects of conventional radiation, proton beam therapy may be an option.
Less damage to your heart – protecting cardiac tissue and blood vessels
Less damage to healthy lung tissue – helping you maintain better lung function
Better outcomes for complex tumours – some tumours too large for conventional radiation therapy can be treated with protons
Treatment that aims at cure – patients offered only palliative care elsewhere may be candidates for proton therapy
Is lung cancer curable?
This is often the first question patients ask their doctor, and it's an important one. The honest answer is: it depends on the stage, type and individual characteristics of the cancer, but there is real hope.
Early-stage lung cancer (stages 1 and 2) is highly treatable. Surgery, SABR or combination approaches with perioperative chemotherapy and immunotherapy offer excellent chances of long-term control and in many cases, cure. Many patients go on to live full, active lives after treatment. It is now rare to remove an entire lung, usually just removing part of the lung (lobectomy) is needed. SABR is a curative option that doesn't require an operation (non-invasive). With modern medicines and techniques, outcomes for early stage cancer continue to improve.
Locally-advanced lung cancer (stage 3) can be treated with curative intent. Advances in chemoradiotherapy, immunotherapy and precision radiation therapy like proton beam therapy and SABR mean that more people are achieving excellent long-term outcomes. I'm now able to offer treatment aimed at long-term control to patients who might have been told their cancer was too advanced just a few years ago. Cure is possible for some people with rapid access to the right treatment.
Advanced lung cancer (stage 4) is more challenging. Modern systemic therapy, including immunotherapy and targeted therapy drugs, can control the disease for extended periods, maintaining quality of life and allowing precious time with loved ones. The aim is to give drugs that enter the blood stream to target lung cancer cells wherever they are in the body. For carefully selected patients with oligometastatic disease (cancer spread to only a few sites), combination treatment with systemic therapy and SABR can be aimed at long-term disease control.
The key is not to assume what's possible based on outdated information. If your doctor hasn't discussed proton beam therapy, MR-linac treatment, clinical trials, SABR or combination approaches with you, we should talk.
"What if my cancer progresses while I'm waiting?"
This is one of the most common fears I hear, and it's valid. Lung cancer can be aggressive, and delays matter. That's why I prioritise rapid access - not just because it reduces anxiety (though it does), but because earlier treatment often means more options.
If you're worried the "window is closing," we need to talk now. Even patients told they have "no options" sometimes have avenues worth exploring with SABR, proton therapy, or clinical trials. Don't assume what's possible based on one opinion.
Our Reviews
What people are saying
“At all times James is excellent. He is open and trustworthy and avoids speaking in jargon. He provides a very high level of care - you would never believe he had other patients to deal with. Given that interactions with him are inevitably about difficult issues and he cannot always deliver good news he is fantastic to deal with. He is also very responsive at all times of day and really puts himself out to help his patients as best he can.”
“Comfortable, safe and so reassuring. Not one single appointment was delayed or rescheduled. Despite the fear of cancer, I have always felt confident and in very safe hands.” –Verified patients
Stereotactic radiotherapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical, curative treatment for lung cancer (in 1-5 treatments)
Precision Radiation Therapy with Outstanding Results
Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) delivers highly focused radiation therapy in just 1-5 sessions, precisely targeting cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
In my practice, over 90% of patients' tumours are controlled by SABR – success rates comparable to lung cancer surgery, but with minimal disruption to your life.
SABR is ideal for:
Early-stage lung cancer in patients not suitable for surgery due to general health or lung disease
Patients who prefer a non-invasive alternative to surgery
Tumours near the chest wall or in previously treated areas
SABR can be delivered with curative intent, with minimal possible side effects and a short treatment course that fits around your life. Most patients complete the procedure within one week.
Learn more about stereotactic radiotherapy (SABR) for lung cancer here.
How Long Can You Live with Lung Cancer with Treatment?
This is one of the most important questions patients ask, and the honest answer is: it depends on many factors, but modern treatment has transformed outcomes dramatically. Treatment 'success' looks different for everybody.
For early-stage lung cancer (Stages 1-2): With treatment like SABR or surgery combined with perioperative therapy, many patients achieve long-term survival. Five-year survival rates for Stage 1 lung cancer treated with SABR exceed 80-90%, with many patients living far beyond that. The goal at this stage is cure.
For locally-advanced lung cancer (Stage 3): Combination treatments including chemoradiotherapy, immunotherapy and proton beam therapy can achieve long-term disease control. Many patients live for years after treatment, and a significant proportion achieve cure. Advances in immunotherapy have particularly improved outcomes for Stage 3 disease.
For advanced lung cancer (Stage 4): Life expectancy varies widely depending on the cancer's molecular characteristics and response to treatment. With modern immunotherapy and targeted therapy, many patients live for several years with good quality of life. For oligometastatic disease (cancer spread to just a few sites), combining systemic therapy with SABR can extend survival significantly - some patients remain stable for many years.
What affects survival? Your cancer type (NSCLC vs SCLC), molecular profile (EGFR, ALK, KRAS mutations), overall health, and response to treatment all play crucial roles. This is why personalised treatment matters - understanding your specific cancer allows us to choose the most effective therapies.
The most important factor is starting the right treatment quickly. Delays allow cancer to progress, potentially closing windows of opportunity for treatments like SABR or surgery. Every patient's journey is different, but one thing is certain: you deserve clear answers and rapid access to the most advanced treatments available.
My Approach: Treating You, Not Just Your Lung Cancer
Treating lung cancer isn't just about targeting tumour cells. It's about caring for you as a whole person: your physical health, your emotional wellbeing, your quality of life and your hopes for the future.
This is what holistic lung cancer treatment means: looking after all of you, not just the disease.
I work with you, your loved ones, and your care team to understand what matters most, addressing your concerns and tailoring your treatment plan to fit your life.
Advanced Treatment Options
Using the most sophisticated techniques available: surgery coordination, SABR, proton beam therapy, MR-linac radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy drugs. I work with you to find the right combination for your situation.
If there is a clinical trial that can access new drugs, I will discuss that with you.
Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Addressing breathlessness, pain, fatigue and other symptoms so you can maintain your independence. Managing possible side effects quickly is a priority, whether from medicines, radiation or the disease itself.
Quality of Life Focus
Where appropriate, I can arrange chemotherapy treatment, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and supportive medicines at home. For others, choosing the hospital location most convenient matters most.
Evidence-Based Medicine
Every recommendation I make is grounded in the latest research, including findings from organisations like the National Cancer Institute. I have access to clinical trials when appropriate, giving selected patients early access to promising new drugs and treatment approaches.
Understanding lung cancer symptoms
Many people delay seeking help because they mistake symptoms of lung cancer for common lung disease or respiratory conditions. Early cancer diagnosis significantly improves treatment options, so it's important to recognise the warning signs:
Persistent cough lasting three weeks or more
Breathlessness or wheezing (trouble catching your breath)
Chest pain, especially when coughing or breathing deeply
Coughing up blood
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
Recurring chest infections
If you or someone you care for is experiencing any of these symptoms, don't wait. A consultation with a doctor can provide reassurance or, if needed, appropriate tests like a CT scan to reach a cancer diagnosis.
If you think you are at risk of lung cancer, but don't have symptoms, learn about lung cancer screening here.
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 80-85% of lung cancer cases. It grows in cells lining the airways and alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lung). NSCLC includes several subtypes:
Adenocarcinoma (the most common, often developing in cells of the outer lung)
Squamous cell carcinoma (usually in cells lining the bronchioles and central airways, strongly linked to smoking)
Large cell carcinoma (a less common, faster-growing form)
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) represents about 15% of cases. Small cell cancer grows more quickly and often spreads to lymph nodes and other organs earlier than non-small cell types. It requires different drugs and treatment approaches than NSCLC.
Knowing your cancer type, stage and genetic characteristics allows us to create a personalised treatment plan. For NSCLC, we can test tissue samples for specific mutations (such as EGFR, ALK, ROS1) that may respond to targeted therapy drugs. I leave no stone unturned in finding the best medicines and approaches for you.
Download Dr James Wilson's free guide - 'What is lung cancer?'
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SABR) is a precise, high-dose radiation therapy for early-stage lung cancer. It’s highly effective, and my personal cure rate is 90%.
Proton beam therapy (PBT) is a specialised & highly effective radiotherapy that targets lung tumors more accurately, reducing radiation to essential organs and tissues.
Use our online contact form to schedule an in-person or online consultation with Dr James Wilson and learn how we can help you.
Step 2
Treatment plan
We will work with you to create a personalised cancer care plan, ensuring we get your treatment started as soon as possible.
Step 3
Treatment & follow-up
As you embark on your treatment journey, we will guide you through each stage with the utmost care. We are here to support both you and your loved ones every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main treatment options for lung cancer?
Treatment options for lung cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy (such as proton beam therapy or MR-linac) and immunotherapy. Your lung cancer treatment options depend on the type and stage of your lung cancer, your overall health and your preferences for your cancer care.
If I have surgery for my lung cancer, can I avoid chemotherapy and radiotherapy?
Your treatment plan largely depends on the stage of your lung cancer and surgical outcomes. We are increasingly providing chemotherapy and immunotherapy before surgery to reduce tumour size and enhance the chances of successful surgery.
As an alternative, we might suggest chemotherapy or targeted therapies after surgery, depending on the stage of your lung cancer and its genetic features. Additionally, radiotherapy could be recommended post-surgery, particularly if there are concerns about remaining microscopic cancer cells.
If I have chemotherapy or radiotherapy, can I avoid surgery?
We’ll discuss the overall aim of your treatment before we begin. If you receive SABR for early-stage lung cancer, your treatment is considered complete as soon as it concludes.
Chemoradiotherapy is administered with the goal of curing stage 3 lung cancer. While I don’t routinely refer all patients for surgery after chemoradiotherapy, if I see a potential advantage in surgery, I’ll discuss this with you. Occasionally, I recommend chemotherapy and immunotherapy before surgery or chemotherapy or targeted therapies (e.g., Osimertinib) following surgery or radiotherapy.
How does radiotherapy work for lung cancer?
Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, and advanced techniques like SABR provide precise targeting to minimise damage to healthy tissue.
What is SABR, and how is it different from traditional radiotherapy?
Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) is a highly precise form of radiation therapy that delivers high doses of radiation to a small, targeted area. It’s different from traditional radiotherapy in its accuracy and ability to minimise exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
What is the success rate of lung cancer radiotherapy?
The success rate of radiotherapy for lung cancer varies based on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. SABR has a high cure rate for early-stage lung cancer.
Will I die from lung cancer?
Survival rates after treatment for lung cancer vary widely. From my personal figures, 90% of the patients I have treated with SABR for early-stage lung cancer were cured by the treatment. For patients with Stage 3 lung cancer (large tumours, or those that have spread within the chest), with chemoradiotherapy followed by immunotherapy, the chance of being alive 5 years after treatment is currently about 40%. However, treatments for lung cancer are continually improving, so I expect this figure to keep rising. I remain dedicated to presenting you with the most effective treatment options to optimise your chance of treatment success.
For patients with metastatic lung cancer, I see patients who have had an excellent response to treatment and who remain well, with controlled cancer, many months to years after diagnosis. A proportion of patients with oligometastatic lung cancer who receive SABR for the metastatic disease can expect to remain cancer-free with good quality of life for longer than ever before.
Ready to Take the Next Step to Start the Best Treatment for Lung Cancer?
Request a Consultation
Whether you've just received a lung cancer diagnosis, want a second opinion, or are looking for faster access to treatment, I'm here to help.
My patients find the time from receiving a diagnosis and starting treatment incredibly difficult. Let's make that time as short as possible, get the answers you need and get the right treatment for your lung cancer started without delay.
