Recent advancements in lung cancer research: a narrative review

Abstract

Background and objective: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate ranging from 10% to 20%. The majority of cases are categorized as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (80%) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) (20%), with NSCLC being the more prevalent type. Tobacco use, particularly cigarette smoking, is a significant contributor to over 80% of lung cancer cases. Early diagnosis is challenging due to limitations in screening methods, resulting in many cases being identified only in advanced stages. Moreover, current treatment options often exhibit low efficacy, partly due to an inadequate understanding of the disease's pathogenesis. This narrative review aims to summarize recent discoveries and advancements in lung cancer research, focusing on improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of the disease.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed utilizing the PubMed Central database to identify recent studies relevant to lung cancer. This review synthesizes findings from various research articles to provide a cohesive summary of advancements in the field.

Key content and findings: In the past decade, notable progress has been achieved in lung cancer research, particularly concerning diagnostics and treatment strategies. Novel therapeutic approaches, including immunotherapy and genomic-targeted therapies, have demonstrated promising results. Understanding the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the role of T lymphocytes has become crucial for developing effective treatments. Additionally, advancements in immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown potential in enhancing patient outcomes. Improvements in tumor detection technologies are also anticipated to facilitate earlier diagnosis, ultimately contributing to better survival rates.

Conclusions: Significant strides have been made in lung cancer research over the last ten years, particularly in diagnostics and treatment methodologies. Future research should prioritize exploring the TME, the function of T lymphocytes, and the efficacy of ICIs while continuing to innovate in tumor detection technologies. Such efforts are essential for enhancing treatment outcomes and improving the overall quality of life for lung cancer patients.

Keywords: Lung cancer; early detection; screening; treatment; tumor microenvironment (TME).