Smoking and Early Detection of Cancer

Early results of a genetic test may be able to identify smokers who will go on to develop lung cancer. A Dr. Thomas Zander states he identified a set of genetic changes that are associated with this disease in 88% of cases. There are many dilemmas with this. First, should we really care? That sounds harsh but the bottom line is that those who choose a suicidal lifestyle like smoking already know the answer to stopping their impending cancer. I guarantee quitting smoking is a better predictor of those not getting lung cancer than this genetic test. Second, who should have to pay for this test? Hopefully, not everyone else. This just adds to the cost burden of healthcare to the shoulder of those who take care of themselves. I got it. How about the tobacco companies perfect this test and give it away for freee? They have all the money anyway. I can see the ad now. Joe Camel swabbing his cheek to give a DNA sample.