Abstract

FARIAS, Mayra A  and  RAEZ, Luis E. Factors linked to women with lung cancer. Rev Med Hered [online]. 2008, vol.19, n.3, pp.108-116. ISSN 1018-130X.

Although breast cancer is the most common malignant disease diagnosed in women, lung cancer has become the most common cancer-related death in women. Noteworthy, lung cancer mortality in women is superior to mortality rate seen from breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers combined. Cigarette smoking is one of the causes directly responsible for this malignancy. Recently, genetic variation among men and women and its possible role in oncogenesis has become evident, including those of CYP1A1 gene or gastrin-releasing peptide receptor.The role of estrogen in lung tumorigenesis has been shown in case control studies where factors such as early menopause, association between tobacco use and estrogen, and hormonal replacement therapy have been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Nevertheless, the role and impact of genetic and hormonal riations in lung carcinogenesis in women is still under study. Interestingly, younger women with lung cancer seem to have better responses with tyrosine kinase inhibitors like gefinitib and erlotinib. In fact, the identification of mutations in the ATP-binding domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor has been shown to predict dramatic responses and introduced the possibility of more individualized therapy. (Rev Med Hered 2008;19:108-116)

Keywords : Lung cancer; risk factors; smoking; women.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )