Introduction

Abstract

Lung cancer is the most common and lethal malignancy in many countries in the world. For example, in the United States lung cancer accounts for 16% of all new cancers and 28% of cancer deaths. The majority of patients present with metastatic disease, and the overall cure rate is extremely low (about 13%). The incidence of lung cancer parallels that of cigarette consumption, as about 85% of cases are due to tobacco use. Over the past decade great strides were made in our understanding of the biology of lung cancer and are summarised in this monograph by Dr. Desmond Carney. We have learned that there are many genetic defects in lung cancer, including the loss of suppressor genes and the overexpression of oncogenes. Growth factors and cell surface antigens are described which are leading to new strategies for prevention and treatment.