November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time to highlight the world’s most deadly form of cancer. Unfortunately, research into this devastating disease remains significantly underfunded. At the 23andMe Research Institute, we are committed to raising awareness and changing the nature of research into this disease. In July 2024, 23andMe, Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies, and 20 patient and research advocacy organizations launched the Lung Cancer Genetics Study. Overseen by scientific and patient advisory boards, the goal is to enroll 10,000 individuals who have been diagnosed with lung cancer to help build a comprehensive genetics research database that captures the diversity of people impacted by the disease.
This mission is a personal one, championed by the late Susan Wojcicki, former YouTube CEO and sister of Anne Wojcicki, the founder and CEO of the 23andMe Research Institute. After her own diagnosis, Susan dedicated herself to advocating for more research and awareness to improve outcomes for all patients. Her legacy and vision are at the heart of these efforts.
More About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer kills more people each year in the United States than colon, breast, and prostate cancer combined. On top of the challenge of a cancer diagnosis, a lung cancer diagnosis often comes with the additional challenge of the myth that lung cancer affects only those with a history of tobacco use. This misconception often leads to a harmful stigma, unfairly suggesting that individuals somehow deserve the disease or brought it upon themselves. However, the truth is that anyone with lungs can get lung cancer, and no one deserves it.
While exposure to tobacco smoke is an important and well-studied risk factor for lung cancer, many other factors—such as genetics, other health conditions, or exposure to harmful substances like air pollution or radon gas—can also play a role. In fact, 10–20 percent of people who develop lung cancers have never smoked or smoked less than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. Conversely, 80–90 percent of people with a history of tobacco exposure never get the disease. The causes of lung cancer are complex, and much research is still needed to understand how different risk factors interact and why some people get lung cancer while others do not. Breaking down this stigma is critical to building awareness, driving progress, and increasing research and funding into this deadly disease.
The Lung Cancer Genetics Study
In its first year alone, the Lung Cancer Genetics Study has enrolled over 1,200 participants. By studying their genetic data alongside survey responses about their experience, medical history, and lifestyle, we aim to transform the scientific understanding of this disease.
This research aims to help:
- Identify risk factors for lung cancer.
- Improve methods for early detection and screening.
- Better identify individuals who are at high risk.
- Advance the development of new, personalized, and targeted treatments.
One of the first questions this study is asking is how can someone’s genetics and what they’re exposed to in their environment interact to impact their risk of lung cancer. Early data addressing this question was presented at the IASLC 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer. For this analysis, 23andMe researchers explored whether a set of rare, genetic variants might impact lung cancer risk differently in people who have smoked compared to people who haven’t smoked. To do this, they examined data from 1010 individuals with lung cancer and asked whether the rare genetic variants were more common in people with or without a history of active tobacco exposure.
The researchers found no correlation between the presence of these rare genetic variants and smoking history in these individuals. But research like this often requires large numbers of research participants, so as the Lung Cancer Genetics Study grows and joins forces with other studies, researchers can reassess and continue to look for genetic variants that may influence the development of lung cancer and learn even more about how genetics and the environment impact lung cancer risk.
Collaboration and Data-Sharing
A key part of this initiative is building powerful new tools to break down research silos. In collaboration with Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies and Lifebit, the 23andMe Research Institute introduced a secure, open-source data platform for researchers to access the data from the Lung Cancer Genetics Study. This platform provides qualified researchers with no-cost access to genetic data and self-reported clinical, lifestyle, and tumor biomarker data from consented research participants, empowering the global scientific community to fast-track new discoveries. Importantly, patients will participate in the data governance process by reviewing and giving feedback on proposed research projects to ensure the work stays grounded in what matters most.
How You Can Get Involved
This critical research is only possible through the participation of those directly affected by lung cancer. By participating, those who have been diagnosed with lung cancer can help build the knowledge base needed to unlock new breakthroughs for future generations.
To learn more about the Lung Cancer Genetics Study, our collaborators, and the eligibility criteria, please visit 23andme.com/lung-cancer.
