LONDON, 5 AUGUST 2024 – Today marks a significant step forward in the fight against lung cancer, as Oncogene Cancer Research, in partnership with 23andMe Holding Co. and 20 lung cancer advocacy organizations, announced the launch of a new study aimed at improving understanding of the disease. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study, funded by Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies, will create a comprehensive, open-source database of heritable genetics and patient-reported data in lung cancer.
This groundbreaking collaboration brings together leading patient organizations, survivors, advocates, and researchers in the field of lung cancer. The study hopes to shed light on the genetic factors that play a role in the disease, ultimately leading to improved detection, risk reduction, and care for patients. Yvonne Diaz, Co-Founder and Chair of Oncogene Cancer Research, expressed excitement for the project, stating, “As a research and advocacy-focused, collaborative patient organization, we’re thrilled to be a part of this important research project. By understanding how genetic factors contribute to lung cancer, we hope to improve outcomes and personalize care for the millions of people diagnosed with this disease each year.”
Jan Clark, Co-founder and Secretary of Oncogene Cancer Research, emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing research: “Research is how we create longer-term survival for our patient community. By working together with other patient organizations, we can recruit for this study faster and ultimately deliver what matters: improved outcomes for our lung cancer patient community. It’s fantastic to see these leading 20+ patient organizations coming together to advance research in this way.”
The study, which is now recruiting participants, will gather de-identified data from 10,000 individuals who have been diagnosed with lung cancer. This data will be made available to approved researchers, providing critical insights into the disease and its causes. Anne Wojcicki, Co-Founder and CEO of 23andMe, explained the significance of this effort, stating, “Through the launch of the Lung Cancer Genetics Study, we hope to fill an unmet need for a comprehensive database that bridges the gap between genetic, clinical, and patient-reported data. Because lung cancer affects people from all communities, it’s important for this research to truly reflect the diversity of those impacted by the disease.”
The study hopes to address the sobering lung cancer statistics that continue to plague communities across the United States. Despite recent advancements in treatment options, lung cancer remains the deadliest cancer, taking more lives than breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers combined. Additionally, early detection of lung cancer is crucial for improving long-term survival rates, yet the disease is often not diagnosed until it has reached later stages. The study aims to change this by providing critical data for scientists studying lung cancer.
The Lung Cancer Genetics Study is a collaboration between 23andMe, ALK Positive Inc., Biomarker Collaborative, BRAF Bombers, EGFR Resisters, Exon 20 Group, Free ME from Lung Cancer, GO2 for Lung Cancer, The Happy Lungs Project, International Cancer Advocacy Network, KRAS Kickers, Lung Cancer Foundation of America, Lung Cancer Research Foundation, LUNGevity Foundation, MET Crusaders, NTRKers, Oncogene Cancer Research, PDL1 Amplifieds, RET Positive, RET Renegades, The ROS1ders, Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies, and The Young Lung Cancer Initiative.
Through this collaboration, advocates, survivors, and researchers hope to make significant strides in understanding the genetics of lung cancer and ultimately find a cure for this devastating disease. For more information on the study or to participate, please visit here.
About Oncogene Cancer Research
Oncogene Cancer Research is a cancer patient and family-led charity that funds and advocates for medical research into oncogene-driven cancers, such as EGFR and ALK, that originate in the lungs. The organization’s mission is to increase the life expectancy for people with these cancers by advocating for improvements and fundraising for medical research.
About 23andMe
23andMe is a genetics-led consumer healthcare and biopharmaceutical company that empowers a healthier future. For more information, please visit www.23andMe.com.
Contact
For media inquiries, please contact admin@oncogeneresearch.org.
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