HealthReutersResearchers find genetic answer to lung cancer in those who never smoked
Scientists have found a rare inherited gene mutation that raises lung cancer risk 25-fold, even in people who have never smoked, which could change how screening is done.
Today we feature an important genetic discovery that could help identify never-smokers at high risk of developing lung cancer. We also report on a study that aimed to make a common gynecological procedure less painful.
Researchers studying data from more than 3.3 million people found a rare inherited gene mutation that is linked to a 25-fold increased risk of lung cancer in non-smokers.
The mutation, called EGFR T790M, was first identified in 2005 in a European family with multiple lung cancer cases and has since been found in other high-risk families.
Study leader Dr Jaclyn LoPiccolo said the findings raise the possibility that future lung cancer screening could be guided by inherited genetic risk, not just smoking history.
Researchers say this finding raises the possibility that future lung cancer screening could be based on inherited genetic risk, not just smoking history, so watch for changes to screening guidelines.
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