Risk Factors of Lung Cancer

Smoking. Smoking is the greatest risk factor for lung cancer, causing as many as 90% of all lung cancer diagnoses. An individual’s risk increases with the number of years spent smoking and the number of cigarettes smoked each day. The risk also increases if the individual began smoking early in life—even if he or she later kicked the habit. Female and African American smokers are also at a greater risk than males and Caucasians who have smoked an equal amount.
   
Secondhand Smoke. Daily exposure to second-hand smoke may increase an individual’s chances of developing lung cancer considerably. Secondhand tobacco smoke contains over 60 chemical compounds known or suspected to cause cancer.

Radon Gas. Exposure to radon gas is second only to smoking as a cause of lung cancer. Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown in soil, rock and water that eventually becomes part of the air we breathe. Although unsafe levels of radon can accumulate in any building, the greatest risk of exposure is faced in the home.

Other Risk Factors. Exposure to asbestos and other chemicals in the workplace such as vinyl, chloride, nickel chromates and coal products can also add to the risk of developing lung cancer, particularly if the individual is exposed to these chemicals in addition to cigarette smoke.

Heredity. Research increasingly points to a genetic factor in lung cancer. Individuals with a parent, sibling or other first-degree relative with lung cancer are at increased risk of the disease, whether they smoke or not, and should consider regular screening for the disease.

To schedule diagnostic testing, or to join our Multidisciplinary Lung Clinic, ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).