DNA methylation-based biomarkers for early detection of non-small cell lung cancer: an update.

ABSTRACT: Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer in the United States. This disease is clinically divided into two sub-types, small cell lung cancer, (10-15% of lung cancer cases), and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC; 85-90% of cases). Early detection of NSCLC, which is the more common and less aggressive of the two sub-types, has the highest potential for saving lives. As yet, no routine screening method that enables early detection exists, and this is a key factor in the high mortality rate of this disease. Imaging and cytology-based screening strategies have been employed for early detection, and while some are sensitive, none have been demonstrated to reduce lung cancer mortality. However, mortality might be reduced by developing specific molecular markers that can complement imaging tech

SUBMITTER: Anglim PP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2585582 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature