ABSTRACT

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the worldwide and its incidence is growing yet, and it is probable that it will be a serious health problem in years to come. However, recent advances in tumors biology, establish clear evidences that woman’s lung tumors are different than those of man. Women are more likely to present with lung adenocarcinoma, tend to receive diagnosis at an earlier age, and are more likely to be diagnosed with localized disease. Women may also be more predisposed to molecular aberrations resulting from the carcinogenic effects of tobacco. Additionally, there are also genetic differences, hormonal, and even infectious agents may be responsible for differences between men and women. These differences seem to have a direct impact in the clinical presentation, histology, and outcomes of lung cancer. Increase knowledge of lung cancer sex differences allows us to find different subgroups susceptible or with better response to treatment.

KEYWORDS

Adenocarcinoma, lung cancer, genetic differences, women, genetic susceptibility, tobacco.

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