Lung cancer is emerging as a silent threat among Asian American women—especially those who have never smoked. Despite the overall decline in lung cancer rates in the United States, recent research shows that rates are increasing among Asian American women who have no history of smoking. In some groups, such as Chinese and Asian Indian American women, up to 80% of those diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked.
This trend is particularly alarming given the low smoking prevalence among Asian American women overall. Researchers point to a range of possible risk factors, including family history of lung cancer, prior lung diseases like tuberculosis or COPD, and environmental exposures such as secondhand smoke and cooking fumes. However, many of these risk factors have been studied primarily in Asian populations living abroad, and may not fully explain the rising rates in the U.S.
Adding to the complexity is the discovery of unique tumor profiles in this population. Asian patients are more likely to have mutations in the EGFR gene, which can drive cancer growth. This highlights the importance of genomic testing for newly diagnosed patients to guide treatment.
The authors stress the urgent need for more research focused specifically on Asian American women. Without better understanding of the causes, this growing disparity may continue unchecked.
See: “Elevated risk of lung cancer among Asian American women who have never smoked: an emerging cancer disparity” (June 1, 2025)
