New Study Finds Link Between Race and Risk of Lung Cancer
by Mary Rettig
February 24, 2006
(AgapePress) - - A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that black people are more likely than members of other races to get lung cancer. Dr. Al Weir, a spokesman for the Christian Medical Association, says this study looked at the incidence of lung cancer among people of different races in order to determine whether genetic differences are a significant factor. However, he points out, many cultural and environmental factors can also affect in individual's susceptibility to cancer.
"Cancers have behavioral components," Weir explains, "and so in different social and economic groups, different cultures, the behaviors are different. That may affect cancer, [as can] environmental exposure.
"In this particular study," the Christian physician continues, the researchers "did evaluate and compare equal levels of smoking, so the exposure was probably similar in both groups. But a change in exposure will increase or decrease your cancer risk." Notably, he says, the investigators found that the risk disparity disappeared among individuals in the study who smoked at least three packs of cigarettes a day.
The primary factor influencing why blacks appear to be predisposed to lung cancer is not clear, Weir says, as the study did not address reasons for the difference in cancer risk. Many factors contribute to some individuals' susceptibility to cancer, he notes.
"First, their genetic predisposition," the doctor observes, noting, "There are racial differences in the genes of Caucasians and African Americans, and some of those genes may well be linked to a propensity for lung cancer." Also, he says, environmental elements -- for instance, exposure to air pollution, certain industrial chemicals, or other contaminants -- and behavioral differences, such as how much a person exercises or how they handle stress, can play a role.
Although the study in the New England Journal of Medicine focused on the racial genetics to determine lung cancer susceptibility, Weir believes education is key to addressing the disparity between the races' risk of developing the disease. That is because education can result in behavioral changes, he says, and lifestyle and behavior choices can profoundly affect a person's tendency to develop cancer.
Mary Rettig, a regular contributor to AgapePress, is a reporter for American Family Radio News, which can be heard online.
