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Genetic anomalies involved
How can we explain the occurrence of lung cancer in non-smokers? There are indeed other risk factors. Like air pollution. “Recent work shows that exposure to fine particles can induce lung cancer independently of smoking. » The genetic dimension must also be taken into account. “There are transmissible genetics, which are very rare, and genetic anomalies present only in tumor cells,” indicates Professor Julien Mazières. “Lung cancer is thus subdivided into subgroups. Each subgroup is defined by specific genetic abnormalities that transform a normal cell into a cancerous cell. »
Exposure to fine particles can cause lung cancer.
The population affected by lung cancer is very varied and affects all ages. “Cases can be found in young patients (under 50), particularly those with ALK mutations. At the other end, very elderly, non-smoking individuals may also be affected, such as those with MET or EGFR mutations. There is also an overrepresentation of women overall. »
Preventing and treating metastases
Between 60 and 70% of non-small cell lung cancers are discovered at an advanced or metastatic stage. “This is explained by the fact that the signs of the disease are not very specific – cough, shortness of breath, persistent fatigue, etc. – and appear late. Often, the diagnosis is made when metastases appear, particularly to the brain which is the main site of metastasis in lung cancer. » This is particularly the case for ALK mutations. Nearly 30% of patients present with brain metastases upon diagnosis of their disease.
According to Professor Julien Mazières, “ALK anomalies have benefited from major progress in recent years thanks to specific targeted therapies. These new molecules, increasingly effective, outperform chemotherapy by offering lasting benefits, often beyond 3 to 5 years. They are also very effective against brain metastases. This makes it possible either to prevent their appearance in patients without brain metastases at diagnosis, or to treat them effectively in those who present them from the start. And being able to treat these metastases considerably improves their quality of life. »
