Let’s Talk About Lung Cancer
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Here’s what you need to know.
Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States and is the leading cause of cancer deaths. The good news is that lung cancer rates are decreasing nationally as fewer people are smoking cigarettes (the number one cause of lung cancer) and as treatments continue to improve.
What are the risk factors for lung cancer? Risk factors include cigarette smoking, tobacco use (i.e., pipes and cigars), secondhand smoke, exposure to chemicals such as radon or asbestos, inherited genetic mutations, and a family history of lung cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control, people who smoke cigarettes are 15 to 30 times more likely to get or die from lung cancer than people who do not smoke. Although you will still be at higher risk than someone who has never smoked, if you currently smoke you can lower your risk of lung cancer by quitting smoking. Radon, is the second leading cause of lung cancer.
What are the signs and symptoms of lung cancer? Many people with lung cancer don’t have symptoms until the cancer is advanced. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include coughing that worsens or doesn’t go away, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing up blood, fatigue, and weight loss. These signs and symptoms also occur during other illnesses. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your health care provider.
What can I do to prevent lung cancer? There are currently no ways to prevent lung cancer but there are things you can do to lower your risk.
What can I do to reduce my risk of lung cancer? Since cigarette smoking causes 80-90% of lung cancer, the biggest thing you can do to lower your risk is don’t start smoking. If you currently smoke cigarettes, stop. Avoid second-hand smoke and make smoke free zones in your home and in your car. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends all homes be tested for radon. Check here for more information and how to get your home tested. Additionally, screening with a low-dose CT Scan may be recommended for certain high risk individuals. Talk to your health care provider about the recommended screening for your situation.
For more information see: The information above was obtained from the Center for Disease Control. More information can be found here or by talking with your health care provider.