Over many years, researchers have worked to better understand lung cancer. One important discovery is that some people with lung cancer have changes in their genes. These changes can cause cancer cells to grow and form a tumour.
This factsheet explains ALK-positive (ALK+) lung cancer, which is caused by a type of gene change called a gene fusion. A gene fusion happens when the ALK gene breaks and joins with another gene. This creates an abnormal ALK protein that sends signals telling cancer cells to grow and multiply.
This discovery has led to new treatment options for people with ALK+ lung cancer. In Australia, targeted therapies called Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) are available. These medicines are taken by mouth as tablets. They can help improve outcomes for some people with ALK+ lung cancer.
TKIs work by blocking the abnormal ALK protein. This prevents it from sending growth signals to cancer cells. Without these signals, cancer cells may grow more slowly or stop growing for a period of time.
To learn more about ALK+ lung cancer, download the factsheet above.
Was this page helpful?
Good job! Please give your positive feedback
How could we improve this post? Please Help us.