Lung Cancer Research

    Pioneering early detection methods for lung cancer, including research for never-smokers and high-risk populations

    Our Lung Cancer Program

    The Canary Foundation's lung cancer research program addresses one of the deadliest cancers through innovative early detection strategies. We focus particularly on underserved populations, including never-smokers who develop lung cancer and communities with limited access to screening.

    Our research includes breakthrough biomarker discovery that has attracted licensing interest from industry partners, and community outreach programs that expand screening access to those who need it most.

    Never-Smoker Research

    Dedicated research into lung cancer in never-smokers, particularly focusing on Asian populations who show higher incidence rates despite no smoking history.

    Biomarker Discovery

    In 2017, we discovered a lung cancer biomarker that attracted significant industry licensing interest, advancing the field of non-invasive detection methods.

    Community Outreach

    Partnership with Baywell Health in Oakland, serving the Black community for 50 years with expanded lung cancer screening programs and education.

    Expanded Screening Criteria

    Working with FQHCs to broaden screening criteria, including 20 years of smoking vs. 20 pack-years, and including family history considerations.

    Addressing Health Disparities

    Our lung cancer program prioritizes addressing disparities in cancer detection and treatment. We're working to ensure that all communities have access to life-saving early detection technologies.

    Never-Smoker Initiative

    Special focus on lung cancer in never-smokers, particularly in Asian populations where incidence is higher despite no smoking history.

    Community Partnerships

    Collaborations with community health centers to bring screening to underserved populations and reduce barriers to early detection.

    Current Research Initiatives

    Low-Dose CT Screening Optimization

    Improving low-dose CT screening protocols to reduce false positives while maintaining high sensitivity for early-stage lung cancer detection.

    Circulating Tumor DNA Analysis

    Developing blood-based tests that can detect lung cancer DNA fragments, enabling non-invasive monitoring and early detection.

    Environmental Risk Factors

    Studying environmental and occupational exposures that contribute to lung cancer risk, particularly in non-smoking populations.

    Key Partnerships

    MD Anderson

    Collaborative research initiatives

    Baywell Health

    Community screening programs

    Industry Partners

    Biomarker commercialization

    Support Lung Cancer Research

    Help us advance early detection for all communities, including never-smokers and underserved populations.