Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Facts: Risk Factors
There are several things that may increase your risk of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Most of these risk factors
, like smoking, can be avoided. However, some risk factors, like family history, cannot be avoided.
Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Risk Factors
The following things may increase your risk of all types of lung cancer, including non-small-cell lung cancer:
- Smoking: Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancers and is responsible for more than 80% of all lung cancer cases. All tobacco products may increase your risk of lung cancer, including cigarettes, pipes, cigars, hookahs and marijuana. Some tobacco products also may increase your risk of other cancers, such as throat and mouth cancers.
- Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke: Breathing in the smoke of others also increases your risk of lung cancer. In fact, studies have shown that spouses of smokers have a 30% increased risk of developing lung cancer.
- Exposure to Dangerous Substances: Exposure to dangerous substances such as arsenic
, asbestos
, radon
, uranium
, mustard gas
, coal products and gasoline, may increase your risk of lung cancer. Many of these cancer-causing substances are found in the workplace. If you smoke and are exposed to such substances, you may be at an even higher risk.
- Radiation Therapy to the Chest: If you have had radiation therapy
to the chest, you may be at in increased risk of lung cancer, especially if you are a smoker.
- Lung Diseases: If you have certain lung diseases, such as silicosis
or berylliosis
, you have an increased risk of lung cancer.
- Previous Lung Cancer: You have an increased risk of developing lung cancer again if you have already had lung cancer.
- Family History of Lung Cancer: If you have a close relative who has had lung cancer, such as a parent or sibling, you may be at an increased risk of lung cancer.
- Air Pollution: Some studies have shown that living in cities with higher air pollution may increase your risk of lung cancer.
- Eating Habits: Some studies have shown that not eating enough fruits and vegetables may increase your risk of lung cancer if you smoke or are exposed to second-hand smoke.
Reducing Your Risk of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
The number one thing you can do to help prevent all types of lung cancer, including non-small-cell lung cancer, is avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke!
In addition to avoiding tobacco products, you should limit your exposure to the dangerous, cancer-causing substances we discussed in the risk factors list. Also, add more fruits and vegetables to your diet.
There is no guarantee that following these guidelines will prevent all lung cancers. However, making these lifestyle changes are proven to help reduce your risk of lung cancer.
Learn about screening for lung cancers and how to recognize possible signs and symptoms of lung cancers: Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Facts: Screening, Signs And Symptoms.
