Lung cancer is widely known to be caused by smoking cigarettes, but what many people do not know is that non-smokers can also be diagnosed with the disease.

This type of lung cancer is called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for 85% of all lung cancer cases. In this article, we will uncover the risk factors for non-smokers and lung cancer.

Environmental Risk Factors

Non-smokers can be exposed to environmental tobacco smoke, also known as secondhand smoke. This can pose a significant risk factor for individuals, especially those who are exposed for long periods.

Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause a range of health issues, including lung cancer. Other environmental risk factors include:.

Radon gas: This is a naturally occurring gas that can be found in homes and buildings. It can seep through cracks and holes, and long-term exposure to it can cause lung cancer.
Air pollution: Exposure to carcinogens such as diesel exhaust, asbestos, and other pollutants can increase the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers.

Genetic Risk Factors

Non-smokers can also be diagnosed with lung cancer due to genetic factors. Some individuals may have inherited gene mutations that increase their risk of developing the disease.

For example, mutations of the EGFR gene can lead to the growth of cancerous cells in the lungs. Other genetic risk factors include:.

A family history of lung cancer
A personal history of other types of cancer

Hormonal Risk Factors

Research has shown that hormonal factors can also play a role in the development of lung cancer in non-smokers. Women, in particular, are at a higher risk due to hormonal changes that occur during their lifetime. These changes include:.

Menopause: Menopausal women have lower levels of estrogen, which can increase their risk of developing lung cancer.
Pregnancy: Women who have never been pregnant or women who have had their first pregnancy after the age of 30 have a higher risk of lung cancer.

Occupational Risk Factors

Non-smokers who work in certain occupations may be exposed to carcinogens that can increase their risk of developing lung cancer. These occupations include:.

Miners: Workers who mine uranium, arsenic, asbestos, and other materials are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.
Construction workers: Workers who are exposed to silica dust, asbestos, and diesel exhaust are also at an increased risk.
Painters: Painters who work with oil-based paints are exposed to carcinogenic chemicals such as benzene, which can increase the risk of lung cancer.

Medical Risk Factors

Non-smokers who have certain medical conditions may also be at an increased risk of developing lung cancer. Medical risk factors include:.

Pulmonary fibrosis: This is a condition that results in scarring of the lung tissue, which can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Tuberculosis: Individuals who have had tuberculosis in the past may be at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.
COPD: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that can lead to lung cancer in some cases.

Conclusion

While smoking cigarettes remains the leading cause of lung cancer, it is important to note that non-smokers can also be diagnosed with the disease.

Environmental, genetic, hormonal, occupational, and medical factors can all increase the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers. By understanding these risk factors, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk of developing lung cancer.