COPD & Lung Cancer Patients with COPD are 6% more likely to develop lung cancer than those without COPD.11 There may be a couple of reasons for the higher risk. One study shows there is a possible link between the genes that cause COPD and lung cancer.23 Other studies have found that the gene linked to the reaction of tobacco smoke may be shared by both COPD and lung cancer. Researchers agree that more studies need to be done that look at the genes and cell reactions that are shared by both diseases, which could help find ways to prevent, detect and treat both diseases.94 There also is a gender difference in the link between COPD and lung cancer. The exact nature and cause of the differences have yet to be identified. Researchers are encouraged that finding the cause and the makeup of these differences could lead to better treatment and patient outcomes.45 The Facts About Lung Cancer Lung cancer across America - Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in men and women.
- In the United States during 2004, there were over 170,000 new cases of lung cancer and over 160,000 deaths from lung cancer. 62
- The five-year survival rate for lung cancer has increased from 13% to 15% over the last 20 years. These rates lag behind the five year survival rates for breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer, 88%, 99% and 63% respectively. 76
- In 2005, approximately $1,825 was spent on research per lung cancer death, compared with $23,474 per breast cancer death, $14,369 per prostate cancer death and $5,216 per colon cancer death. 47
Lung cancer in Illinois and Cook County - Illinois was ranked 15th in the United States for new cases of lung cancer diagnosed in 2002. 2
- The number of Illinois patients hospitalized with lung cancer increased by 8.5% from 2001 to 2004. 41
- In Suburban Cook County, lung cancer was responsible for over 4,000 deaths during 2000-2002. 22
Lung cancer in Chicago - There are 14 neighborhoods on the south and west sides and Rogers Park that have at least a 33% higher death rate than that of the city as a whole. 19
Lung cancer and smoking - Cigarette smoking accounts for 87% of lung cancer deaths. 61
- Of all new lung cancer cases, 10-15% have never smoked. 47
- Second Hand Smoke causes about 3,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States. 61
- Non-smoking spouses of smokers have a 30% greater risk of developing lung cancer than do spouses of nonsmokers. 3
Lung cancer and Caucasian women - Lung cancer diagnosis in women has increased by 600% since 1955. 67
Lung cancer and African American men - African American males have a 50% higher incidence rate of lung cancer when compared to White males. 2
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