Prior Lung Diseases Linked to Higher Lung Cancer Risk in Non-Smokers

Tuberculosis and chronic bronchitis found to increase lung cancer risk among those who have never smoked

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A new study has found that a history of tuberculosis (TB) and chronic bronchitis are associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in individuals who have never smoked. The research, which involved a systematic review and meta-analysis of data from 25 studies, also suggested a positive but non-significant link between asthma and lung cancer risk, with a significant association found specifically in women.

Why it matters

This study highlights the importance of considering prior lung health conditions when assessing lung cancer risk, even among those who have never smoked. The findings could help inform screening and prevention strategies, particularly for individuals with a history of TB or chronic bronchitis.

The details

The researchers analyzed data from 20 case-control studies involving 54,135 participants and 5 cohort studies involving 377,983 participants. They found that a history of TB was associated with a 76% increased risk of lung cancer, while chronic bronchitis was linked to a 36% higher risk. While the association between asthma and lung cancer risk was positive but not statistically significant overall, a significant link was observed when the analysis was limited to women.

  • The study was published online on January 11, 2026.
  • The researchers analyzed data from studies conducted from inception to July 2025.

The players

Nishwant Swami, MD

The lead author of the study, affiliated with the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

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What they’re saying

“History of TB was especially associated with increased LC [lung cancer] risk, meriting particular attention for prospective CT screening studies.”

— Nishwant Swami, MD, Lead author (Chest)

What’s next

The researchers note that the study was limited by a lack of uniform adjustment for key confounders, the inclusion of few cohort studies, and differences in covariate adjustment, variable definitions, and language restrictions. Further research is needed to confirm the findings and explore the underlying mechanisms linking prior lung diseases to lung cancer risk in never-smokers.

The takeaway

This study underscores the importance of considering a patient's medical history, beyond just smoking status, when assessing their risk for lung cancer. The findings suggest that individuals with a history of tuberculosis or chronic bronchitis may benefit from increased lung cancer screening and monitoring, even if they have never smoked.