Lung cancer that is plural
« There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell cancer and non-small cell cancer. », Specifies Professor Julien Mazières.
« The second is the most common, accounting for about 85% of cases. Among these, there are different subgroups. The most common is adenocarcinoma, then there is squamous cell carcinoma, and cases that are more difficult to categorize, such as large cell carcinoma. »
Although tobacco is the leading cause of lung cancer, this disease can also affect non-smokers.
« Many lung cancers develop without smoking for reasons that are still poorly understood. The proportion of non-smoking patients with lung cancer is also increasing4. “To illustrate his point, Professor Mazières emphasizes: ” that the number of deaths in the United States from this type of cancer is higher than that from colon cancer.”
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 is transmissible genetics, very rare, and genetic abnormalities present only in tumor cells. “, says 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. »
Who is concerned ?
The population affected by lung cancer is very diverse and affects all ages. Cases can be found in young patients (under 50 years of age), particularly those with ALK mutations. At the other end, very elderly, non-smoking people can 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 because 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 in the brain, which is the main site of metastasis in lung cancer. »
This is particularly the case for ALK mutations. Nearly 30% of patients have brain metastases as soon as their disease is diagnosed.
According to Professor Julien Mazières, “ ALK abnormalities have benefited from major progress in recent years thanks to specific targeted therapies. These new molecules, increasingly effective, surpass chemotherapy by offering lasting benefits, often beyond 3 to 5 years.1.
They are also very effective against brain metastases. This allows either to prevent their appearance in patients without brain metastases at diagnosis, or to treat them effectively in thisux who have them from the start. And being able to treat these metastases considerably improves their quality of life. »
