According to charity EDFR Positive, EGFR-mutated lung cancer in the UK is nearly twice as common in women than in men.
It also affects more people who have never smoked or have been light smokers.
The stigma attached to lung cancer was something she struggled with, she said, although she was supported by family, including husband David, and her children.
“I started to reach out because it was a very lonely place because I didn’t know anybody else who’d had that cancer.
“I think lung cancer in particular, there’s a lot of stigma because everybody thinks it’s only because of environment or smoking, and it’s not.”
Maria’s cancer can be managed with a daily tablet, which has reduced the size of the tumour to undetectable levels, and is monitored through regular check-ups.
Screening as a preventative method, similar to cervical and breast cancer checks, could be a way to catch the disease earlier, she said.
“At one time, you had to be a heavy smoker and cough a lot before you’d get X-rays and be referred.
“I’m in a very positive mind frame because of the advancements in research and science, it’s really amazing what they can do [but] it’s about awareness.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the government was committed to “driving forward research and screening to better diagnose and support those with cancer”.
“The UK National Screening Committee advises on screening, and proposals for screening conditions can be made online through the open call on the GOV.UK website,” they added.