Lung Health Sensor

Lung Health Sensor is a genetic test that analyses genes important for breaking down harmful substances from smoke and polluted air. According to the catalogue description, the report assesses genetic susceptibility to lung cancer and provides prevention recommendations. The test shows susceptibility, not disease, and does not replace examinations or screening.

Who the test is intended for

• you smoke or have stopped smoking;
• you are exposed to dust, soot, smoke or exhaust fumes at work;
• you live with a smoker or in an environment with polluted air;
• a close relative has had lung cancer;
• you are interested in how the body breaks down harmful substances and which preventive measures make sense for you.

What the test reveals

Cigarette smoke and polluted air contain substances that damage lung cells. The body breaks them down and eliminates them with the help of specific enzymes, and genes determine how well those enzymes work. The test analyses genetic variations that may affect this “cleansing” ability. Request the exact list of genes and variants included in the test before testing. According to the catalogue description, you receive:

• an assessment of genetic lung cancer risk;
• prevention recommendations: avoiding pollution, early detection and a diet rich in vitamins C, E and D, selenium and zinc;
• a pharmacogenetic section with information on how inheritance may affect the action and tolerability of some medicines.

The effect of these variations is small compared with smoking. The test does not detect cancer and does not replace examinations or screening.

What the test involves and how to prepare

The sample is an oral swab: a swab is passed several times over the inside of the cheek. It is painless and takes a minute or two, while the whole visit usually takes around ten minutes. For 30 minutes before swab collection, do not eat, drink anything except water, smoke or chew gum. Genes do not change, so the test is performed only once.

What your result means

• Usual breakdown capacity: good news, but smoking and polluted air still harm the lungs. A favourable result does not make smoking safe.
• Reduced breakdown capacity: this is also common in healthy people and does not mean you will develop disease. It means that avoiding smoke and protection at work are even more worthwhile for you.
• Medicines section: shows how inheritance may affect the action and tolerability of some medicines. The doctor can consider this when selecting a medicine and dose.

The doctor interprets the report alongside your habits, workplace exposure and family history. Free genetic counselling is also available with the report. Vitamins and minerals are best obtained from food. In studies, some supplements, such as beta-carotene, have even increased lung cancer risk in smokers, so do not take them without medical advice. Stopping smoking offers the greatest protection, at any age.

If you are 50 to 75 years old, smoke or stopped within the last 15 years and have a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years, ask your family doctor about the National Lung Cancer Screening Programme. A cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood or breathlessness are reasons for an examination regardless of the report. Read more in the article Early symptoms of lung cancer.

Urgent: if you cough up a large amount of blood or develop sudden breathlessness, call 194 or 112.

How to arrange testing

The test is performed without a referral or appointment: a nurse takes the swab at any of our branches (listed on the Contact page). Prices for all tests and panels are available in the price list.

Frequently asked questions

Can a genetic test detect lung cancer?

No. It shows susceptibility, while lung changes are detected through imaging, including low-dose CT for smokers in the screening programme.

If the report is favourable, is smoking less harmful to me?

No. Smoking is the greatest cause of lung cancer and harms the heart and blood vessels regardless of genes.

Is it worth stopping smoking after many years?

Yes. Lung cancer risk gradually decreases with years of not smoking, while breathing and circulation improve within the first months.

Is lung cancer hereditary?

Mostly not. If a parent, brother or sister has had lung cancer, the risk is somewhat higher, particularly with smoking, so tell your doctor.