Lung cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer that kills more people than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined. However, the common perception of the disease is that it only happens to those who smoke.

That statement cannot be any further from the truth. In this article, we will explore the different factors that contribute to lung cancer, and why it is not always a smoker’s disease.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates and grows in the lungs. It starts when cells in the lungs begin to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor that can be malignant or benign.

Malignant tumors can spread to other parts of the body, while benign tumors cannot. There are two main types of lung cancer, namely Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer. NSCLC accounts for about 85% of all lung cancer cases, and it is the most common form of lung cancer that affects non-smokers.

Smoking and Lung Cancer

One of the most common misconceptions about lung cancer is that it only happens to those who smoke. While it is true that smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, it is not the only cause.

According to the National Cancer Institute, smoking is responsible for about 80% of all lung cancer cases. However, that still leaves 20% of cases that are not related to smoking. That means that non-smokers can also get lung cancer, and we will explore some of the reasons why that happens.

Radon Exposure and Lung Cancer

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that occurs naturally in the ground. It is estimated to cause about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.

Radon gas can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in the foundation, walls, and floors. When people breathe in radon gas, it can damage their lung tissue and increase their risk of developing lung cancer.

Radon exposure is particularly dangerous for those who spend a lot of time in their basements, such as homeowners, or people who work in underground mines or caves. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homeowners test their homes for radon and take measures to reduce their exposure if the levels are high.

Secondhand Smoking and Lung Cancer

Secondhand smoking refers to the inhalation of smoke from someone else’s cigarette, cigar, or pipe. It is a known risk factor for lung cancer, and it is estimated to cause about 7,300 lung cancer deaths per year in non-smokers.

Secondhand smoking can lead to the same harmful effects as smoking, such as lung inflammation, DNA damage, and oxidative stress. Non-smokers who live with smokers or work in environments with poor ventilation, such as bars and restaurants, are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that non-smokers avoid exposure to secondhand smoking whenever possible.

Genetics and Lung Cancer

Genetics plays a role in the development of lung cancer, particularly in non-smokers.

Studies have shown that certain gene mutations, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, are more common in non-smokers with NSCLC than in smokers with NSCLC. These mutations can make the cancer cells more aggressive and more resistant to traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Genetic testing can help identify these mutations and guide the treatment for lung cancer patients.

Air Pollution and Lung Cancer

Air pollution is a known risk factor for lung cancer, and it can affect both smokers and non-smokers. It is estimated to cause about 6% of all lung cancer cases worldwide.

Air pollution contains dangerous chemicals and particles, such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), that can enter the lungs and cause inflammation, DNA damage, and oxidative stress. People who live in urban areas with high levels of air pollution, or those who work in industries with high exposure to air pollution, such as construction workers and truck drivers, are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

The World Health Organization recommends that governments take measures to reduce air pollution levels to protect public health.

Pulmonary Fibrosis and Lung Cancer

Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition that occurs when the lung tissue becomes scarred and thickened, making it harder for oxygen to pass through the walls of the lungs. Pulmonary fibrosis is a risk factor for lung cancer, particularly in non-smokers.

Scar tissue can act as a breeding ground for cancer cells and create a tumor that can be malignant or benign. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a type of pulmonary fibrosis that has been linked to a higher risk of lung cancer, particularly adenocarcinoma. IPF patients should be screened regularly for lung cancer to detect any growths early.

Lung Cancer Myths and Facts

There are many myths and misconceptions about lung cancer that can be harmful to those affected by the disease. Here are some common myths and facts about lung cancer:.

Myth: Only smokers get lung cancer.

Fact: Non-smokers can also get lung cancer, and there are many factors that contribute to the disease, such as radon exposure, secondhand smoking, genetics, air pollution, and pulmonary fibrosis.

Myth: Lung cancer is always fatal.

Fact: Lung cancer is not always fatal, especially if it is detected in its early stages. Treatment options such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy can help improve the chances of survival.

Myth: Lung cancer only affects older people.

Fact: While it is true that lung cancer is more common in older people, it can occur at any age. Younger people can also develop lung cancer, particularly if they are exposed to risk factors such as smoking, air pollution, or genetics.

Myth: Once you have lung cancer, it’s too late to quit smoking.

Fact: Quitting smoking is one of the best things that a lung cancer patient can do to improve their health and chances of survival. Smoking can worsen the effects of lung cancer treatment and increase the risk of developing other health problems.

Even quitting smoking after a diagnosis of lung cancer can help improve the patient’s quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lung cancer is not always a smoker’s disease.

While smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, there are many other factors that contribute to the disease, such as radon exposure, secondhand smoking, genetics, air pollution, and pulmonary fibrosis.

It is important to be aware of the risk factors and take measures to reduce the risk of developing lung cancer, such as avoiding smoking and secondhand smoking, testing for radon exposure, reducing air pollution, and getting screened regularly for lung cancer if you are at risk. Early detection and treatment can help improve the chances of survival for lung cancer patients.