Lung cancer is often diagnosed at later stages, leading to lower survival rates, for several reasons:

1. Asymptomatic Early Stages: In its early stages, lung cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. This lack of symptoms can delay diagnosis until the cancer has advanced.

2. Lack of Routine Screening: Unlike some other cancers, routine screening for lung cancer is not as common. Many cases are only detected when symptoms arise or during unrelated medical exams.

3. Non-Specific Symptoms: When symptoms do occur, they can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions. For example, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue can be attributed to various causes.

4. Stigma Associated with Smoking: Smokers and former smokers may underestimate the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms, often attributing them to smoking-related issues.

5. Rapid Growth and Metastasis: Lung cancer can grow and spread rapidly. By the time symptoms become apparent, the cancer might have advanced to a later stage.

6. Aggressive Subtypes: Certain subtypes of lung cancer, such as small cell lung cancer, are known for their rapid growth and propensity to metastasize early.

7. Lack of Routine Lung Health Awareness: Unlike breast or prostate cancer, which have received significant awareness campaigns, lung cancer hasn't always received the same level of public health promotion.

8. Access to Healthcare: Lack of access to healthcare, including medical insurance and regular medical checkups, can delay diagnosis and treatment initiation.

9. Late Onset of Symptoms: Some symptoms, such as cough and fatigue, are initially mild and might not prompt individuals to seek medical care until they worsen.

10. Misinterpretation of Symptoms: People often attribute symptoms to other less serious causes, leading to a delay in seeking medical attention.

11. Fear of Diagnosis: The fear of receiving a cancer diagnosis might prevent some individuals from seeking medical care promptly.

The combination of these factors can result in lung cancer being diagnosed at later stages, when treatment options are often more limited and less effective. However, it's important to note that efforts are being made to raise awareness about lung cancer, promote early detection through screening, and reduce stigma associated with seeking medical attention for lung-related symptoms. These initiatives aim to improve the prognosis and survival rates for individuals with lung cancer.