Rare Appalachian Gene Mutation Sharply Raises Lung Cancer Risk in Never-Smokers

Researchers identify a gene variant concentrated in Southern Appalachia that markedly increases lung cancer risk among never-smokers, potentially one of the strongest cancer-risk mutations discovered. The finding is based on genetic and epidemiological data, but population-level prevalence and clinical implications remain to be fully characterized. This could reshape screening guidelines and targeted therapies for a high-risk subgroup.