What is the life expectancy for adenocarcinoma?

The overall life expectancy for adenocarcinoma depends on the stage, but in general, only around 18 percent of people live past five years. Adenocarcinoma is a type of nonsmall cell lung cancer. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the higher the life expectancy, claims About.com.

Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer. It causes lung cells to grow uncontrollably, therefore causing tumors, according to Drugs.com. The tumor cells then spread to other parts of the body. Life expectancy also depends on the health of the person and whether cancer has spread beyond the chest. Adenocarcinoma is usually only curable if the tumor is removed by either surgery or radiation.