The fight against lung cancer is evolving, with groundbreaking research shedding light on the intricate interplay between biology, environment, and health disparities.
As a thoracic surgeon and health disparities researcher at City of Hope, my mission is to address these inequities and ensure that all patients, regardless of background, receive the best possible care.
Investigating environmental and social determinants of lung cancer
Lung cancer disparities are a complex issue. African Americans experience higher incidence and mortality rates than other racial groups, despite lower smoking rates.
This paradox highlights the need to examine environmental exposures, such as air pollution, as key contributors to lung cancer risk and biology.
Our research at City of Hope focuses on particulate matter (PM2.5), a known carcinogen disproportionately concentrated in historically marginalized communities.
Achieving true progress requires a shift from solely attributing disparities to individual behaviors and toward addressing systemic factors that have placed certain populations at greater risk.
Recent studies from our group and others demonstrate a correlation between exposure to air pollution and aggressive tumor mutations, such as TP53 mutations.
By integrating geospatial environmental data with tumor biology, we aim to elucidate the impact of structural inequities on lung cancer pathogenesis.
Additionally, our work has highlighted how neighborhood deprivation—characterized by limited health care access, poor air quality and economic instability—affects lung cancer development and tumor biology (such as the risk of KRAS alterations, which are associated with poor outcomes).
These findings underscore the urgent need for policies that address the root causes of health disparities.
Advancing equity in oncology workforce and care
The underrepresentation of Black physicians in surgical oncology remains a pressing challenge. Studies show that minority patients have better outcomes when treated by physicians of similar backgrounds, yet Black doctors are significantly underrepresented in the field.
Mentorship plays a critical role in bridging this gap. I encourage young physicians to pursue research questions that resonate with them while fostering a network of mentors and collaborators.
The path to becoming a surgeon-scientist is demanding, but strong institutional support and collaboration make it possible to create meaningful change.
A future focused on access for all and innovation
At City of Hope, we are integrating environmental science and oncology to reshape our understanding of lung cancer disparities.
By combining rigorous research with advocacy for systemic change, we can advance equity in cancer care and outcomes.
Achieving true progress requires a shift from solely attributing disparities to individual behaviors and toward addressing systemic factors that have placed certain populations at greater risk.
Only by prioritizing equity in research, workforce diversity and patient care can we create lasting change in the fight against lung cancer.
Listen to Dr. Erhunmwunsee on City of Hope’s new podcast, “On the Edge of Breakthrough: Voices of Cancer Research.” Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and at cityofhope.org/edge-of-breakthrough.
City of Hope® is one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S. To learn more about City of Hope, visit: www.cityofhope.org.
