Lung Cancer in Special Populations

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pulmonology
• Immunology

Background:

• Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally.
• Cigarette smoking is a primary risk factor, but not the sole cause.
• Certain populations face disproportionately higher lung cancer burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the unique risks and challenges in early detection, diagnosis, and management of lung cancer in specific vulnerable populations.
• To highlight populations including people with HIV, immunocompromised individuals, nonsmoking women, and those with interstitial lung disease (ILD).

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on epidemiology, clinical presentation, and management challenges.
• Analysis of risk factors, diagnostic difficulties, and treatment limitations in selected groups.
• Examination of trends in lung cancer incidence, particularly among women.

Main Results:

• Individuals with HIV show increased lung cancer incidence, often at younger ages and advanced stages.
• Immunocompromised patients (e.g., post-transplant) have heightened risk due to immune dysfunction and prior therapies.
• Individuals with ILD, especially idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), face diagnostic and treatment challenges due to altered lung structure and reserve.
• A notable rise in lung cancer incidence among women, particularly never-smokers, is observed worldwide.

Conclusions:

• Vulnerable populations like those with HIV, immunocompromised status, ILD, and women (especially never-smokers) require tailored screening and management strategies.
• Chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and prior medical treatments contribute to elevated risk in these underrepresented groups.
• Precision approaches are essential for individualized care, addressing the complex interplay of risk factors and unique patient characteristics.