DNA Breakthrough IDs Genes That Boost Lung Cancer Risk

In a discovery that applies to both smokers and nonsmokers, researchers have identified two genetic variations that may increase the risk of lung cancer by some 60%, Reuters reports. A huge sample—15,000-plus subjects in 18 countries—yielded results that helped researchers locate the variations on the fifth chromosome, a step forward in finding drugs to battle the disease.

"The idea is if you can identify genes then that might indicate why people develop lung cancer," said the lead researcher. "We are looking at versions of genes that everybody has."