Lung Cancer Surge in Young, Non-Smoking Women Sparks Urgent Questions
London, UK – A growing number of young, fit, non-smoking women are being diagnosed with lung cancer, challenging long-held perceptions of the disease adn prompting a renewed focus on research into its causes and treatment.While historically linked to smoking, advancements in genetic testing are revealing a notable proportion of cases, like those of Li and Smith, are driven by specific genetic mutations.
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer death, and is now claiming the lives of as many women as breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers combined, according to the Lung Cancer research Foundation. The shift in demographics is notably striking, with diagnoses occurring in individuals with no history of tobacco use.
Li, whose story highlights the rapid evolution of lung cancer treatment, experienced significant tumor reduction following initial chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. However, a brain lesion discovered in January led to a switch to targeted therapy – a daily pill – alongside continued chemotherapy. “life is more intense now,” Li says. “There’s more vividness to everything… you’re just way more appreciative of it all.” She acknowledges the uncertainty of the future, hoping new treatment options will become available as her cancer inevitably develops resistance to current therapies.
Smith’s experience underscores the impact of targeted treatments for specific genetic mutations. After receiving a diagnosis of ALK-positive lung cancer – identified through a biopsy – she began taking ALK inhibitors, resulting in a substantial reduction in her cancer. While she has experienced progression in her brain and is now on a second line of treatment,Smith has embraced life,becoming a pilates teacher and recently getting engaged while on a yoga retreat in Bali.
Despite positive treatment responses, both women express the emotional toll of living with lung cancer, compounded by a lack of public awareness and support compared to other cancers. Smith notes the common surprised reactions: “‘But you don’t smoke?’ ‘You’re so young?'”
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has significantly increased its recommendations for lung cancer treatments in recent years. Sence 2015, NICE has approved 48 new treatments, a six-fold increase compared to the previous decade, reflecting the growing understanding of the disease and the advancement of innovative therapies.
While the reasons for the rise in lung cancer among non-smoking women are still being investigated, the stories of Li and Smith demonstrate the importance of early detection, genetic testing, and continued research into new treatment pathways. Both women emphasize a shift in viewpoint, focusing on living fully in the present despite the uncertainties of the future. “Scans never get easier, but you get better at dealing with them,” Smith says. “I genuinely live for today now – and five years on, I’ve finally reached a stage where I can be grateful for that.”
