Recent data reveals a concerning trend in lung cancer cases among young women of Asian and Latina descent, shedding light on growing health disparities. Dr. Narjust Florez, a thoracic oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, reports seeing patients as young as 18 with metastatic lung cancer, despite no prior tobacco exposure.
The rise in lung cancer cases among non-smokers has been particularly pronounced in women, who are 2.5 times more likely than men to develop the disease without a history of tobacco use. Environmental factors play a significant role in this disparity, with Asian American and Hispanic/Latina women facing higher risks due to cultural and socioeconomic factors.
Exposure to cooking fumes, air pollution, radon, and second-hand smoke are more prevalent in these communities. Dr. Florez notes, “Where you live and work can also increase your risk for lung cancer.” Additionally, genetic factors contribute to the disparity, with certain cancer-driving mutations being more common in women, non-smokers, and people of Asian descent.
Current screening guidelines may not adequately address this emerging risk group, as they focus on older individuals with a history of smoking. To address this gap, Dana-Farber is developing a blood test to screen younger, non-smoking individuals of Asian or Hispanic/Latinx descent who are at higher risk for certain types of lung cancer.
Dr. Florez emphasizes the importance of awareness, stating, “If you have lungs, you can get lung cancer.” She urges doctors to consider lung cancer as a possibility even in younger, non-smoking patients to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment. This research highlights the need for more inclusive screening practices and tailored interventions to address the growing lung cancer disparities among young women of color.
See “Lung Cancer Cases Rising in Young Women of Asian and Latina Descent: What You Need to Know” (September 6, 2024)
