WCLC 2025 - Posters & ePosters-P3.01.20 Lung Cancer Risk Factors in 35,530 People From the UKLS Trial Who Have Never Smoked

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This study analyzed lung cancer risk factors among 35,530 UK individuals who have never smoked, based on data from the UK Lung Screening Trial (UKLS). Lung cancer in never-smokers (LCiNS) is recognized as a distinct disease from smoking-related lung cancer, contributing to about 15% of UK lung cancer cases and around 6000 deaths annually. However, risk factors for LCiNS in Western populations are less understood than in East Asian groups, where incidence is higher.<br /><br />Using post-hoc analysis of questionnaire data and five-year follow-up outcomes, researchers examined key factors included in the Liverpool Lung Project risk model (LLPv2), such as age, sex, previous respiratory disease, family history of lung cancer, prior cancer history, and asbestos exposure. Among never-smokers, 58 lung cancer cases (0.16%) were identified, compared to a higher incidence (1.34%) among smokers.<br /><br />Findings highlighted that in never-smokers, lung cancer risk was predominantly associated with older age and socioeconomic deprivation. Contrary to observations in East Asian populations, family history of lung cancer and personal history of cancer were not significant risk factors in this UK cohort. Prior lung disease appeared to have a slight protective effect, suggesting complexity in its relationship with smoking status. The study notes that additional unidentified factors may contribute to lung cancer risk in never-smokers.<br /><br />The authors call for further research to elucidate lung cancer risk determinants among never-smokers across diverse populations, considering environmental, genetic, and social influences. This work underlines the importance of tailoring lung cancer risk models and screening strategies to different demographic groups.<br /><br />The UKLS trial was funded by the UK National Institute for Health Research, with this analysis supported by Cheshire & Merseyside Cancer Alliance. The study contributes to refining risk stratification and understanding of lung cancer in people who have never smoked.

Asset Subtitle

Lucy Shire

Meta Tag

Speaker Lucy Shire

Topic Risk Factors, Risk Reduction & Tobacco Control

Keywords

lung cancer

never-smokers

UK Lung Screening Trial

risk factors

Liverpool Lung Project

socioeconomic deprivation

age

family history

prior respiratory disease

lung cancer screening