Lesser Known Risk Factors Of Lung Cancer

The lungs are vital organs that facilitate breathing, enabling oxygen to be delivered to the body’s tissues and removing carbon dioxide from the body. Lung cancer refers to a type of cancer that originates in the lungs and occurs when the cells in the organ grow abnormally and form a tumour. It is primarily caused by smoking tobacco, but can occur in non-smokers due to other risk factors. 

On this World Lung Cancer Day, Dr Sandeep Nayak P, Director-Department of Surgical Oncology and Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, shares the ill effects of smoking and also lists other unheard of risk factors of lung cancer. 

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Smoking Is The Biggest Risk Factor Of Lung Cancer

According to Dr Nayak, smoking is responsible for almost 70% of lung cancer cases. 

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer, adding that in the United States, it is linked to about 80-90% of lung cancer deaths. 

Globally, more than 10 lakh people die due to lung cancer each year, says the American Thoracic Society, adding, “It is estimated that cigarette smoking explains almost 90% of lung cancer risk in men and 70 to 80% in women.”

Other Lesser Known Risk Factors To Note

While smoking is one of the major risk factors of lung cancer, Dr Nayak shares that it is not the only one. There are other factors that make you prone to the disease. These include: 

Radon exposure

Radon is an odourless, colourless gas that can infiltrate homes through cracks in the foundation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), radon is estimated to cause between 3-14% of all lung cancers in a country, depending on the national average radon level and smoking prevalence. “To reduce this risk, homeowners can test for radon levels and take necessary measures to like filters and improve ventilation,” says Dr Nayak.

Occupational hazards 

These can elevate lung cancer risk. “Individuals exposed to carcinogens in their workplaces, such as asbestos, diesel exhaust, and certain chemicals, should adhere to safety regulations and use protective equipment,” recommends the doctor. 

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Air pollution

Another overlooked risk factor is prolonged exposure to outdoor pollutants, common in urban areas with heavy traffic and industry. People should minimise outdoor activities during peak pollution times, use indoor air purifiers, and support pollution-reducing initiatives.

Family history and genetics 

Those with a family history of lung cancer should be vigilant about avoiding other risk factors, especially smoking and environmental toxins. In addition, according to Dr Nayak, personal or family history of respiratory diseases, like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), can heighten lung cancer risk. Managing existing respiratory conditions and adhering to treatments is essential.

Secondhand smoke exposure 

Secondhand smoke exposure, also known as passive smoking or Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) exposure, occurs when a non-smoker inhales the smoke from other people’s tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. This smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals and toxins, including carcinogens, which can be detrimental to the health of those who are exposed to it. Dr Nayak says, “Secondhand smoke exposure during childhood can lead to lung cancer later in life, making it crucial to avoid smoking indoors and protect children from secondhand smoke.”

Lastly, he adds, “Lung scarring from previous tuberculosis (TB) can increase the risk of lung cancer. Lung scarring in TB refers to the formation of scar tissue in the lungs as a result of the body’s immune response to the TB infection. As the immune system tries to contain the bacteria, it can lead to inflammation and damage to lung tissue, which may result in fibrosis and scarring. This scarring can affect lung function, potentially causing breathing difficulties and reduced lung capacity.

Word Of Caution

Cancer is not entirely predictable on an individual level. There are risk factors, such as smoking, family history, exposure to carcinogens, and genetic predisposition, which can increase the likelihood of developing cancer. However, the disease’s development is complex and can be influenced by a combination of factors.

“Some lung cancer risk factors are beyond our control, but mitigating these lesser-known risks through preventive measures, lifestyle changes, and awareness can significantly contribute to better lung health and decreased chances of developing lung cancer,” concludes Dr Nayak.