2023-11-05 05:58:00
Non-smokers can also get lung cancer, and a new study has revealed why this is the case. Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Germany, with lung tumors being the second most common type of cancer in men. However, while smoking is a known risk factor for lung cancer, non-smokers also develop the deadly disease.
Researchers from the Francis Crick Institute and University College London conducted a study to investigate the link between lung cancer and air pollution from exhaust gases produced by the combustion of fossil fuels. They used patient records, animal experiments, and sample collection to gather data. The results of their study, which has not yet been published in a specialist journal, were presented at the annual meeting of the European Society for Medical Oncology in Paris.
The study found a connection between air pollution, particularly fine dust particles with a particle size of PM2.5, and an increased risk of mutations in the EGFR gene, which is associated with lung cancer. The research team also demonstrated in mice that exposure to PM2.5 particles caused changes to both the EGFR and KRAS genes, further linking air pollution to lung cancer.
The team further examined nearly 250 lung samples from people who had never been exposed to air pollution or tobacco smoke. Despite their healthy lungs, mutations in the EGFR gene were found in 18% of the samples, and mutations in the KRAS gene in 33%. The researchers explained that these mutations alone are likely not enough to cause cancer. However, when cells are exposed to air pollution, such as PM2.5 particles, along with the presence of a gene mutation, it can trigger a wound healing reaction and lead to the development of cancer.
The study sheds light on why non-smokers can develop lung cancer. While the research focuses on air pollution as a potential cause, it is important to note that there may be other factors involved in the development of lung cancer among non-smokers.
In addition to explaining the development of lung cancer, the research team also developed an approach for preventing lung cancer. They showed in an experiment with mice that an antibody can stop the inflammatory process triggered by the messenger substance interleukin 1 beta. This could potentially prevent lung cancer from developing. Furthermore, a new cancer drug that has already been approved in the USA could make the treatment of lung cancer easier in the future.
The findings of this study highlight the importance of addressing air pollution and its impact on public health, particularly in relation to lung cancer. It also underscores the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms underlying the development of lung cancer in non-smokers.]
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