It’s a common misconception that only smokers are at a risk of developing lung cancer.

However, recent studies have shown that non-smokers are also at a significant risk of developing the disease, and are in fact 2.5 times more likely to do so in their lifetime than previously thought.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the lungs. These cells can grow uncontrollably and form tumors that can spread to other parts of the body.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, accounting for approximately 1.8 million deaths annually.

Why are Non-Smokers at Risk?

A significant proportion of lung cancer cases are linked to smoking. However, non-smokers can develop lung cancer too. In fact, it is estimated that around 15% of all lung cancer cases occur in non-smokers.

The exact reasons why non-smokers develop lung cancer are not fully understood. However, it is believed that exposure to certain substances and pollutants can damage the lungs and increase the risk of developing the disease.

For example, exposure to asbestos, radon, and certain chemicals has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

Secondhand Smoke

One of the most significant risk factors for non-smokers is exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke is the smoke that is exhaled by smokers or that comes from burning tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes.

When non-smokers inhale secondhand smoke, they are exposed to the same harmful chemicals and toxins as smokers.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 7,000 lung cancer deaths are caused by secondhand smoke exposure each year in the United States alone.

Non-smokers who live with smokers are exposed to secondhand smoke on a daily basis and are at a much higher risk of developing lung cancer than those who do not live with smokers.

Risk Factors for Non-Smokers

In addition to exposure to secondhand smoke, there are several other risk factors for non-smokers that increase their risk of developing lung cancer. These include:.

Exposure to radon gas
Exposure to asbestos
Exposure to certain chemicals such as arsenic and chromium
Family history of lung cancer
Exposure to air pollution
Prior radiation therapy

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Early lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the type of lung cancer and how advanced it is. Common symptoms of lung cancer include:.

New or worsening cough
Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
Fatigue
Weight loss

Diagnosing Lung Cancer

If you are experiencing any symptoms of lung cancer or are at risk due to exposure to harmful substances, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans to look for abnormalities in the lungs. A biopsy may also be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of lung cancer.

Treatment for Lung Cancer

Treatment for lung cancer depends on several factors including the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Common treatment options for lung cancer include:.

Surgery to remove the cancerous tissue
Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells
Targeted therapy to attack specific cancer cells
Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight cancer cells

Preventing Lung Cancer

While some risk factors for lung cancer are beyond our control, there are steps we can take to reduce our risk of developing the disease. These include:.

Avoiding tobacco products
Avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke
Testing homes for high levels of radon gas
Reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight

Conclusion

Lung cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening. While smoking is a well-known risk factor, non-smokers are also at a significant risk of developing the disease.

Exposure to secondhand smoke, harmful substances, and pollutants are just a few of the reasons why non-smokers are at risk. If you are experiencing any symptoms of lung cancer or are at risk due to exposure to harmful substances, it’s important to talk to your doctor and take steps to reduce your risk.