The Impact of Age on Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview

Abstract

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with incidence and mortality rates rising significantly with age. Tobacco use is the primary risk factor, aging itself introduces biological and clinical complexities that influence lung cancer risk, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Age-related factors such as cumulative exposure to carcinogens, genetic and epigenetic alterations, immunosenescence, and comorbidities contribute to increased susceptibility and poorer outcomes in older adults. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is more prevalent in this population, though genetic predispositions in younger patients also highlight age-stratified molecular differences. Despite therapeutic advances, older patients remain underrepresented in clinical trials. This mini-review also highlights how genetic variants may differentially influence lung cancer risk across age groups, underscoring the importance of age-specific molecular research.