Familial Lung Cancer

Familial lung cancer refers to cases where multiple family members develop lung cancer, suggesting a genetic or inherited risk factor. While smoking remains the primary cause, genetic predispositions can influence how susceptible an individual is to developing the disease, even with limited or no smoking. Certain inherited gene mutations may affect lung tissue or how the body repairs damage from environmental exposures. Recognizing familial patterns can help identify at-risk individuals who may benefit from earlier screening and personalized prevention strategies. However, lifestyle factors, especially smoking, continue to play a significant role in lung cancer risk regardless of family history.