Introduction: Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide and is strongly associated with smoking. However, an increasing number of cases have been reported among non-smokers, particularly women in regions with frequent exposure to biomass smoke, such as the Northern region of Brazil. In the Amazon, such exposure commonly results from domestic use of firewood for cooking and recurrent agroforestry burnings, which release carcinogenic substances like fine particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Chronic inhalation of these pollutants is associated with persistent inflammation and potential genetic alterations, including mutations in the EGFR gene, a critical biomarker and therapeutic target in pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Objective: To describe the epidemiological and molecular profile of non-smoking patients with lung adenocarcinoma exposed to biomass smoke in southeastern Pará, focusing on sex, age, exposure history, and prevalence of EGFR mutations. Methods: This is a retrospective, observational, and descriptive study using secondary data from institutional medical records and peer-reviewed publications. The sample included non-smoking patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, residing in southeastern Pará, from 2016 to 2023. Variables analyzed were sex, age, estimated exposure time to biomass smoke, and presence of EGFR mutations identified by molecular testing. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample (frequencies, means, standard deviations), and inferential analyses (chi-square and t-test) were applied to compare mutation prevalence according to exposure duration and sex, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 48 patients were included. The majority were female (68.8%), with a mean age of 56.3 years (SD ± 8.1). Most had lived for over 15 years in rural or peri-urban areas with frequent biomass use in poorly ventilated environments. EGFR mutations were identified in 62.5% of cases, predominantly in exons 19 (33.3%) and 21 (27.1%). Patients with more than 15 years of biomass exposure showed a significantly higher prevalence of EGFR mutations compared to those with shorter exposure (p = 0.031). No significant difference was found between sexes regarding mutation rates, although women tended to have longer cumulative exposure durations. The findings suggest a possible dose-response relationship between exposure time and mutational occurrence. Conclusion: The study reveals a distinct epidemiological pattern in southeastern Pará, marked by a predominance of middle-aged women with prolonged exposure to biomass smoke. The high frequency of EGFR mutations—particularly in exons 19 and 21—supports the need for routine molecular testing to guide targeted therapies in non-smokers with lung adenocarcinoma. The association between long-term exposure and mutation prevalence also highlights the role of socio-environmental determinants in cancer risk, reinforcing the urgency of public health interventions aimed at improving indoor air quality in vulnerable populations.
It is with great enthusiasm that we present the Annals of the Oncology International Symposium 2025, an event that continues to solidify its significance in the oncology landscape of northern Brazil. Held in Belém, Pará, Oncology 2025 centered around the theme "The cancer control challenge: better knowing it to best facing it," dedicating itself to exploring the latest frontiers in cancer treatment and prevention.
This year, the symposium provided a deep dive into the essential role of knowledge in the fight against cancer, presenting new perspectives and scientific advancements across various areas of oncology. Renowned global experts gathered to share their most recent research and innovative approaches, offering participants a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and patients worldwide.
Presentations and discussions during the event focused on critical topics such as the use of new technologies, advancements in personalized therapies, and more effective prevention strategies. Additionally, particular attention was given to the unique challenges faced by the Amazon region, with efforts aimed at developing region-specific solutions to meet local needs.
Beyond being a high-caliber academic event, Oncology 2025 stood out as a moment for integration and professional networking, with the warm hospitality of the city of Belém offering participants a unique experience. This event became a platform for exchanging ideas, where science, culture, and humanity came together in pursuit of a common goal: to improve cancer control both in Brazil and globally.
This collection of abstracts and articles presented during the event reflects the ongoing dedication to research and the development of innovative solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in the fight against cancer.
General Submission Guidelines:
The presenting author, who does not have to be the first author, must be registered for Oncology 2025.
Each abstract may have up to 10 authors, including the main author and co-authors.
Only original, unpublished work will be accepted.
Submissions must be related to oncology. However, project descriptions, work proposals, experience reports, and literature reviews will not be considered.
Clinical case reports are allowed, provided the abstract addresses scientific questions, details clinical observations, and includes primary scientific data.
The abstract must be written in English, but presentations may be given in Portuguese.
Abstracts must be between 300 and 500 words.
Comissão Organizadora
Comissão Científica
See Annals of Oncology 2023 at:
https://www.even3.com.br/anais/oncology-2023-international-symposium/
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