Gene Variations Directly Link Inflammation to an Increased Risk for Lung Cancer, University of Texas and National Cancer Institute Study

PHILADELPHIA- Variations in two genes related to inflammation may be a major risk factor for developing lung cancer, according to a team of scientists from the National Cancer Institute and the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. The effect of these genes is especially strong among heavy smokers, suggesting that the inflammatory response is important in modulating the damage caused by tobacco smoke.