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[Gender-specific difference in lung cancer].
M Serke1, F Stanzel, M Westhoff
1Pneumologie, Lungenklinik Hemer, Hemer, Germany. monika.serke@lkhemer.de
Pneumologie (Stuttgart, Germany)
|May 17, 2013
Summary
Lung cancer incidence is rising in women, with differences in causes and histology compared to men. Women show better survival rates and distinct molecular targets, suggesting sex-specific approaches are needed.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Context:
- Lung cancer, once rare in women, now shows increasing incidence, particularly in young females.
- It is a leading cause of cancer death in women in developed nations.
- Histological types differ, with adenocarcinomas being more prevalent in women.
Purpose:
- To highlight the growing disparities in lung cancer between men and women.
- To explore the etiological factors contributing to lung cancer in women, including smoking, environmental exposures, and genetic/hormonal influences.
- To compare survival rates and molecular targets between sexes.
Summary:
- Cigarette smoking is a primary cause, but women's susceptibility to carcinogens may differ.
- Non-smoking women developing lung cancer suggest exposure to environmental carcinogens like secondhand smoke, radon, and cooking fumes.
- Genetic and hormonal factors influence lung cancer etiology in women, with distinct molecular profiles (e.g., EGFR, ALK) observed.
Impact:
- Women generally experience better overall survival rates compared to men with lung cancer.
- Identified differences in molecular susceptibility underscore the need for sex-specific research and treatment strategies.
- Understanding these sex-based differences can inform targeted prevention and therapeutic interventions for lung cancer.
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