Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. It accounts for more cancer deaths in women than breast, ovarian and uterine cancer combined. Studies have shown distinct differences in lung cancer between men and women:
- Women are more likely to develop certain types of lung cancer (such as adenocarcinoma and small cell carcinoma).
- Women have a better survival rate overall than men.
- Female smokers are less likely to develop lung cancer than their male counterparts.
- Female non-smokers are more likely to develop the disease.
- Lung cancer tumors in women have genetic differences that make them more responsive to treatment.
As the first hospital in the nation to focus on gender medicine in a comprehensive way, Brigham and Women’s Hospital has developed a targeted evaluation and treatment program that recognizes that lung cancer develops and progresses differently in women than in men.
The Women's Lung Cancer Program comprises surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pulmonologists, cardiologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, physical therapists, dietitians and social workers—all experts in the advanced care of women with lung cancer. The Program is part of The Lung Center at BWH and offers a wide range of support services, including the Women's Lung Cancer Forum, nutritional services and post-operative services for women undergoing surgical therapy for lung cancer.
Our physician-scientists are engaged in ongoing research, leading to progress in gender-specific lung cancer discoveries and bringing new therapies and hope to women with lung cancer.
Learn more about lung cancer and lung nodules.
Learn more about Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center
Read patient stories about women diagnosed with lung cancer..
Answers to commonly asked questions about women and lung cancer.
Learn more about The Women’s Lung Cancer Forum, a monthly meeting specifically for women with lung cancer and their family members.
Read this report: Out of the Shadows: Women and Lung Cancer by the Mary Horrigan Connors Center for Women’s Health and Gender Biology
How do I make an appointment?
Call The Lung Center at 1-844-BWH-LUNG (1-844-294-5864) to make an appointment with the Women’s Lung Cancer Program or request an appointment online.
I'm a physician. How do I refer a patient?
Physicians can call 1-844-BWH-LUNG (1-844-294-5864) to refer a patient or can make an online referral.
Who is on the team?
Where are you located?
The Lung Center is located at Brigham and Women’s Hospital at the 15 Francis Street entrance. Thoracic surgery, pulmonary and critical care medicine and thoracic imaging are adjacent to one another, making accessibility and appointment scheduling seamless.
