Researchers will attempt to develop extensive family trees and collect blood and tissue samples for genotyping from 80 to 100 families nationwide during the five-year study. A laboratory and statistical genetic procedure, called linkage analysis, will help identify chromosomal regions and subsequently, the gene or genes for lung cancer. Similar studies have identified genes that predispose families to breast and colon cancer. Individuals who have at least two immediate family members diagnosed with lung cancer, or at least three distant relatives diagnosed with lung cancer, may be eligible for the study. The results could ultimately lead to the development of new therapies for the treatment of this disease.
Lung cancer is the leading causes of death in the United States and worldwide.
It is estimated that more than 1.3 million people in the world will die from lung cancer in the year 2000. Md. The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of the nation's leading cancer research, treatment, education and outreach centers. It is affiliated with Wayne State University and The Detroit Medical Center and supported by United Way.