Lung Cancer in Women: a Review

Purpose of Review Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadliest cancers affecting millions of men and women worldwide. Historically, lung cancer predominantly affects men, but in recent years there have been significant changes in the epidemiology of lung cancer among women. Additionally, further understanding of lung cancer has changed our approach to the diagnosis and management of lung cancer. This article aims to discuss recent changes in lung cancer among women including incidence, mortality, risk factors, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and prognosis. Recent Findings The incidence of lung cancer among women is declining overall but at a significantly slower rate compared to men. The implementation of smoking prevention and cessation efforts has decreased the incidence of cigarette smoking of the past 50 years which has revealed other important risk factors for developing lung cancer. Additionally, new algorithms for diagnosis and staging have led to further changes in management strategies for lung cancer. Summary Lung cancer among women is a growing concern with incidence rates decreasing significantly slower compared to men. Risk factors such as age, race, socioeconomic status, and geographic locations are becoming more apparent as important variables in the development of lung cancer among women. Lastly, new advancements in diagnosis, staging, and management are likely to result in improved short- and long-term prognosis in patients with lung cancer.