Body Odors Researched as Clue to Lung Cancer Detection

The leading cause of cancer death is lung cancer, which accounts for about 1.3 million deaths each year. Early detection increases the chance of curing this disease, but there are not many symptoms in the early stages, meaning that the cancer is often advanced before being discovered. New research from Monell Chemical Senses Center indicate that body fluid odors could provide clues and a method of early detection.

When cancer tumors are present there may be a change in odors from the fluids in the body. The odors can be detected by sophisticated chemical techniques and trained animal sensors. The study findings may help to lead to earlier diagnostic and prognostic approaches for treatment of lung cancer. The summary of the research was released in a press statement by Monell Chemical Senses Center biologist Gary K. Beauchamp, Ph.D., a senior author on the study.

According to the press release from Monell, new research could developing into a way to identify potential lung cancer through a urine test. If future research finds urine tests to be an effective diagnostic tool, they could be used as a medical screening test particularly for high risk people, particularly smokers.

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, according to the National Institute of Health. If a person started smoking at a younger age, the cancer risk is higher. Lung cancer risk is higher with high levels of pollution, radiation and asbestos exposure.

Lung cancer often show no symptoms in early stages. As the disease progresses, common symptoms may include: persistent cough, constant chest pain, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, wheezing o hoarseness, repeated problems with pneumonia or bronchitis, swelling of the face and neck, appetite loss, weight loss and fatigue.

According to the National Institute of Health, prevention includes not smoking. If you smoke, quit. You should also avoid exposure to second hand smoke. Breathing in the smoke from other people's cigarettes, pipes and cigars is the source of second hand smoke. The NIH also states that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may be helpful in preventing cases of lung cancer.

If a cancer tumor is discovered through a medical exam, a doctor can recommend additional diagnostic testing and design treatment plan. Medical treatment for cancer may include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about a medical condition, please consult a doctor.

Resources:

EurekAlert: Monell Chemical Research Center - Sniffing out lung cancer at early stages. Changes in body fluid odors indicate presence of lung cancer tumors. 26 - Jan 2010

National Institute of Health

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