2023 World Conference on Lung Cancer (Posters)-EP04.01. Volatile Organic Compounds in Exhaled Breath as Biomarkers for Lung Cancer. A Screening-Based Study in High-Risk Participants

EP04.01. Volatile Organic Compounds in Exhaled Breath as Biomarkers for Lung Cancer. A Screening-Based Study in High-Risk Participants - PDF(Abstract)

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This study aimed to explore the potential of analyzing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath as a biomarker for the early detection of lung cancer in high-risk individuals. The researchers conducted a screening-based study as part of a national low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening program. They enrolled subjects aged 55 to 75 with a history of heavy smoking. Breath samples and ambient air samples were collected from 47 subjects and analyzed using thermal desorption-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD-GC/MS). The plan is to enroll a total of 500 subjects by November 2023.<br /><br />The integration of LDCT information and chemical characterization of exhaled breath could potentially lead to the development of statistical classification models that can differentiate between malignant and benign nodules and aid in the early diagnosis of lung cancer. The results of this study suggest that analyzing VOCs in exhaled breath may serve as a biomarker for lung cancer and could be used in conjunction with radiological screening to improve the accuracy of differentiating between malignant and benign nodules.<br /><br />The researchers aim to establish the role of breath analysis in thoracic oncology and its potential for improving the early diagnosis of lung cancer. This is particularly important as lung cancer often lacks specific early symptoms, making it challenging to detect in high-risk individuals such as smokers. Overall, this study highlights the potential of breath analysis as a non-invasive and cost-effective tool for lung cancer screening and early detection.

Asset Subtitle

Annamaria Catino

Meta Tag

Speaker Annamaria Catino

Topic Screening & Early Detection: Biomarkers/Imaging Technology

Keywords

volatile organic compounds

exhaled breath

biomarker

lung cancer

high-risk individuals

low-dose computed tomography

screening program

thermal desorption-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

chemical characterization

early diagnosis