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A New Blood Test for the Early Detection of Lung Cancer in Non-Tobacco Using Asian and Latinx Individuals, EQUAL Trial

Trial Status: active

This clinical trial studies whether a new blood test can detect a specific type of lung cancer (LC) early in non-tobacco using Asian and Latinx individuals. Human bodies are made up of cells with genes that regulate their growth and function. When changes, known as "alterations," occur in these genes, cells can start growing uncontrollably and spreading, leading to cancer. Sometimes, these cancer cells, along with their mutated genetic material, can enter the bloodstream. The new blood test used in this trial allows for the detection of these mutations, specifically mutations in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR is a gene change which can be present in a specific type of LC. EGFR is often found in non-tobacco using, East Asian or Hispanic individuals who are not eligible for routine LC screening with current guidelines. EGFR-related LC is often diagnosed at a very advanced stage when the cancer has traveled outside of the lung. Using the new blood test may help detect EGFR mutations and LC earlier in non-tobacco using Asian and Latinx individuals, which may allow for more treatment options.