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The Genetic Epidemiology of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with a low 5-year survival probability of around 10%. Although tobacco smoke is the predominant cause of disease, an estimated 10% to 30% of lung cancer cases may be attributed to other factors.
The Department of Genetic Epidemiology is involved in the study of genetic risk factors. To this end, the Department conducted its own national study together with the Helmholtz Munich (LUCY study) to collect medical and genetic information from lung cancer patients, which was compared with information and blood samples from healthy individuals. Furthermore, the Department cooperates with the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS)(see lung cancer and radon for further details), as well as being a former and current member of international research consortia (ILCCO, INTEGRAL).
We are convinced that uncovering the genetic basis can contribute significantly to the understanding of biological mechanisms of carcinogenesis and is consequently important to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of lung cancer.
Last updated March 2023
