Potential Causes and Risk Factors of Lung Cancer

It is currently estimated that over 210,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with lung cancer (LC) each year. Over 160,000 people die from the disease each year. Its impact is enormous.

Traditionally, it has been recognized as a smoker’s affliction. That is, only those who were habitual smokers were considered at risk. Contrary to that belief, research estimates that 10% of diagnosed cases have little to do with smoking. In other words, millions of people who do not smoke are potentially at risk. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of the condition and offer a few preventative tips.

What Causes The Disease?

Few people were diagnosed with the disease during the 1920s. However, when smoking became popular, the number of cases sharply rose. Today, cigarette smoke remains the most common catalyst. The number of cigarettes that a person smokes daily, and the duration over which that person has smoked them, has a tremendous influence on the likelihood of developing the condition. So potent are the chemicals in tobacco that many people develop lung cancer from inhaling secondhand smoke.

Even though many people believe that cigars do not contribute to the incidence rate of LC, that perception is inaccurate. The influence of cigars is smaller, but it does exist.

Another cause of the disease is asbestos. There are tiny fibers in asbestos that can become lodged in the lung tissue after being inhaled. The problem is that asbestos was used liberally for decades within the insulation of houses, apartments, and buildings across the country. Its use has since been banned, but many people have been exposed to it for many years.

Radon gas is also known to be a risk factor for LC. This is a natural gas that can seep through the soil and gain access to the insides of homes through a variety of openings. It is odorless, so the likelihood of noticing it is small. The EPA estimates that nearly 7% of houses has high levels of exposure.

Steps To Prevention

The first step toward prevention is to eliminate all exposure to tobacco smoke. If you smoke cigarettes, quit. If you live with someone who smokes cigarettes, convince that person to quit or consider changing your living arrangements. You should also have your home tested for the presence of radon gas. A high level of exposure places you and your family at risk.

Finally, maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine. That means eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limiting the amount of alcohol you consume. With regard to exercise, one half hour of vigorous activity each day will keep your lungs working properly.

Genetic disposition and gender are also risk factors, though there is little you can do about either. Instead, focus on your lifestyle and living environment to lower the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Find the right doctor for lung cancer treatments or mitral valve repair. Early diagnosis can lead to successful results.

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