Is lung cancer passed down in families?

Some Types: There is growing evidence that some types of lung cancer can be genetically inherited. These are types of adenocarcinoma that are linked to genetic mutations in a protein called egfr. Often these lung cancers manifest in younger people who are never smokers.

Risk is increased: A family history increases the risk of lung cancer in individuals upto 2 times. Individuals with a family history may develop lung cancer as their body cells may be less able to cope with carcinogens such as those found in cigarette smoke, etc.

Possibly: EGFR mutations are somatic meaning they occur within the tumor and can be used for targeted treatment but are not inherited and not associated with susceptibility. Lung cancer susceptibility in families can be associated with a number of familial cancer syndromes and also with inherited mutations in the genes LNCR1 and LNCR3. There are also genetic syndromes that impair immune functiion