Early-Onset Lung Cancer: Global Trends, Disparities, and Personalized Treatment Strategies

The increasing incidence of early-onset lung cancer has become a focal point of research, as it challenges the traditional association of lung cancer with older age. Despite a general decline in smoking-related cancers, there is a notable rise in lung cancer cases among younger populations, particularly women, who often present with advanced disease and oncogenic mutations, yet lack a smoking history. This shift in demographic patterns highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the unique biology and challenges faced by younger patients. Current studies have begun to explore the genetic and environmental factors contributing to this trend, but significant gaps remain, particularly in understanding the geographic and ethnic disparities. In the era of personalized medicine, addressing these gaps is crucial for optimizing treatment and prevention strategies for early-onset lung cancer.

This research topic aims to explore the complex interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental exposures in the development of lung cancer among young adults. By examining the molecular characteristics, causes, and treatment options, the research seeks to answer critical questions about the global trends, disparities, and perspectives in early-onset lung cancer. The goal is to enhance our understanding of the disease's biological underpinnings and to develop tailored management strategies that consider the unique needs of younger patients.

To gather further insights into the multifaceted nature of early-onset lung cancer, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Global trends and epidemiology
- Screening, early detection, and prevention
- Ancestry, ethnicity, and genetic factors
- Environmental exposures: air pollution, radon, and more
- Exposome and other risk factors
- Basic and translational research
- Palliative, supportive, and integrative care, drugs, surgery, radiotherapy
- Short- and long-term side effects
- Fertility, pregnancy, and survivorship
- Psychosocial challenges and advocacy

Please note that manuscripts focusing solely on bioinformatics or computational analysis of public genomic or transcriptomic databases without independent validation are outside the scope of this research topic.

Keywords: Global oncology, adolescent and young adult oncology, etiology, genetics, carcinogens, ethnicity, fertility, disparities, microbiome, biomarkers, oncogene driven lung cancer, immunotherapy, toxicity, palliation

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.