Lung cancer is one of the most frequently occurring forms of cancer and this article will outline several of its risk factors that put people at increased risk.
1. Smoking
Over 80% of lung cancer cases can be directly linked to smoking. Many compounds found in tobacco smoke have been known to cause irreparable damage to lungs and increase risk for lung cancer.
2. Secondhand Smoke
Exposure to passive smoking or secondhand smoke has been linked with an increased risk of lung cancer among never smokers, especially among nonsmokers.
3. Radon Exposure
Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas found in soil and rock formations. Exposure to high levels of radon over an extended period increases your risk of lung cancer.
4. Air Pollution
Exposure to high levels of air pollution, particularly in urban settings, has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.
5. Genetic Risk Factors
Some individuals may inherit an increased risk for lung cancer; the odds increase further if there is an established family history of lung disease.
6. Occupational Exposure
Occupations like mining, construction and manufacturing expose employees to harmful chemicals that increase their risk for lung cancer.
Asbestos, once widely utilized in building materials, has since been banned in many countries due to the health risks it entails.
Some companies used asbestos-containing production processes in production facilities, exposing employees to increased levels of asbestos exposure that eventually resulted in lung cancer among them.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
NSCLC is the most prevalent form of lung cancer, accounting for roughly 85% of cases worldwide. Usually growing and spreading more slowly than its smaller cousin, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), there are three subtypes of NSCLC:
Adenocarcinoma: This subtype of NSCLC is most prevalent among nonsmokers and is more likely to strike women than men. Symptoms usually begin in the outer parts of the lung before spreading to other organs in the body.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This subtype of NSCLC usually begins in the bronchial tubes in the center of your lungs and has been linked with smoking. Symptoms may include coughing and shortness of breath.
Large Cell Carcinoma: This subtype of NSCLC may occur anywhere within the lungs and tends to grow and spread more quickly than its peers.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
SCLC is less prevalent than its NSCLC counterpart, comprising approximately 15% of cases. Often more aggressive and rapidly progressing than NSCLC, SCLC is often linked with smoking; non-smokers rarely develop it.
Before Beginning Treatment of Lung Cancer
Before initiating lung cancer treatments, it is vital to assess a patient’s overall health status. Individuals suffering from preexisting medical conditions may not tolerate aggressive treatments and need their plans tailored accordingly.