According to a recent article, LUNGevity has just launched a resource platform that provides information, news, and community for patients diagnosed with ALK-positive lung cancer.

ALK Positive Lung Cancer

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) positive lung cancer is a form of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that occurs when the ALK gene is mutated. It most commonly impacts those who don’t smoke at all and people under the age of 55.

Symptoms:

Symptoms often do not appear until the cancer has progressed. When they do arise, they include:

• Chronic cough
• Bloody sputum
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Hoarse voice
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath

Cause:

In 3%-5% of NSCLC patients, there is an acquired mutation in the ALK gene, and it is fused with the EML4 gene. When this occurs, enzymes within the cells begin to signal mutated cancer cells to rapidly divide and multiply, therefore spreading the cancer.

There are a number of risk factors that heighten one’s risk of developing this cancer. These include being under the age of 55, being of East Asian descent, being female, exposure to certain environmental carcinogens, and smoking very little or not at all.

Treatments:

There are a number of ALK inhibitors that have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of this cancer. Zykadia, Alecensa, Lorbrena, Xalkori, and Alunbrig have all received approval. Other treatment options include chemotherapy and targeted therapy.

The ALK-Positive Lung Cancer Patient Gateway

The resource, named the ALK-Positive Lung Cancer Patient Gateway, was created in an effort to give patients specific information for their particular subtype. It will allow patients to find specialists easier, determine what treatment will work best for them, and connect with people with a similar diagnosis and those who care for them.

The resource is a portal that is easy to access and use. This portal will provide patients with the most recent medical updates that pertain to the treatment and management of their disease, along with resources that are potentially life-saving. This portal is not only a great resource for patients, but for medical professionals as well.

Features

In addition to medical news and ALK information, the portal also has some other interesting features. It has a blog, posts webinars, and features real stories from both patients and their caregivers. Those who are interested may also subscribe to the resource’s newsletters.

The LUNGevity Foundation

The LUNGevity Foundation is a foundation that is dedicated to funding scientific research for people with lung cancer. They do this through supporting lung cancer research, education, and support. Their mission is to improve the quality of life along with the survival of all of those who are diagnosed with lung cancer.