Genetic Mutation Linked to Dramatic Lung Cancer Risk in Non-Smokers
Summary
A new study found that people who carry a rare genetic mutation called EGFR T790M have a much higher risk of lung cancer, especially those who never smoked. Researchers analyzed data from millions of people and found that the mutation increases lung cancer risk by about 25 times overall and over 60 times for non-smokers.Key Facts
- The EGFR T790M mutation is linked to a large increase in lung cancer risk.
- People with the mutation who never smoked have more than 60 times higher lung cancer risk.
- Overall, carriers have about 25 times higher odds of lung cancer compared to non-carriers.
- The mutation is rare, found in about 1 in every 15,850 people.
- It is most common in the United States, especially in people with British, Irish, African, or Indigenous American ancestry.
- The mutation likely came from Europe to the Southern Appalachian region about 200 years ago.
- Data in the study came from over 3 million people’s genetic and health records.
- Researchers hope this finding will help identify people who may need genetic testing and lung cancer screening.
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