Researchers are also looking at molecular tests and genetic tests to see if we can diagnose lung cancer earlier using these methods. This brings up the very important point that lung cancer is often incurable. If we could improve the cure rate through early detection, even small gains, for example an increase in survival rate of 1 or 2 percent, could save thousands of people a year. A one percent improvement represents almost 1,600 more people surviving. Unfortunately the funding for lung cancer research has been limited.
People often blame smokers for causing their own lung cancer.
As a result, there has been less empathy for people who are diagnosed. I think that's wrong. I don't believe anybody's ever smoked so they could get lung cancer. It's a habit people start, and it's very, very difficult to break. There is also a lot of competition today for dollars to fund research in general.