Relationship between risk factors for lung cancer and tumor size

Abstract

Introduction:The probability of developing lung cancer (LC) can be predicted from mathematical models to assess risk factors. Our hypothesis is that these factors could be related with tumor size.

Objectives: Describe characteristics of a population with LC and assess the relationship between risk factors and tumor size.

Methods: Retrospective study in which were included patients diagnosed with LC in our hospital for a year. Medical history and radiology information was collected. The volume of the tumor size was calculated from the three diameters of the tumor.

Results:212 patients patients were included, 112(80 %) men. Age 66 (10) years. BMI 27(4). Smoking history in 192 (91%), 93 (44 %) were current smokers. Smoking intensity:52(23) packs cigarettes-year. 45 (21%) had a high risk profession. COPD 80 (38%), radiology emphysema 43 (20 %). Personal history of cancer in 45 (21%) and family history of LC in 21 (10%).The most common symptoms were: pain (24%), dyspnea (20 %). Were incidental findings 22% of cases. Tumor types: non-small 83 % (46 % adeno). Tumor stage: III-IV 72%. Tumoral volume:77184(173402)mm³.

Tumor size was directly related to female sex (p<0.001), absence of comorbidity and the presence of general syndrome (p<0.05) and inversely related to the existence of COPD (p<0.05) and history of other malignancies (p<0.05). The relationship with smoking was expressed as “U”, small and large tumors occur in patients who smoke more, and medium tumors in fewer smokers (p<0.001).

Conclusions: Tumor size seems to be more related with social and health situation than risk factors. Tobacco has a relationship with the size, probably influenced by the increased monitoring of patients with other associated comorbidities.