Do Non-Smokers Get Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the world, affecting more than two million people worldwide in 2020. It is caused by the growth of harmful lung cells and can be life-threatening if not detected early on. Being able to recognize the causes of this condition is crucial to early detection. While smoking increases the chance of developing it greatly, non-smokers are also vulnerable.

In this article, we will discuss what lung cancer is, its leading causes and risk factors, what causes lung cancer in non-smokers, and the early symptoms of lung cancer in non-smokers.

What is Lung Cancer?

Cancer is a disease where harmful cells in your body begin to grow at uncontrollable rates. This can happen in any part of the body. Lung cancer is a specific form of cancer that starts in the lungs and can later spread to other parts of the body. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world.

The causes of lung cancer include smoking, exposure to harmful materials (such as radon, asbestos, arsenic, uranium, certain petroleum products, etc.), genetic mutations, family or personal history of lung cancer, and prior radiation therapy to the chest.

What is the Connection Between Lung Cancer and Smoking?

One of the primary reasons leading to lung cancer is smoking. This includes items such as cigarettes, pipes, cigars, and other smoked tobacco products. Tobacco contains many toxic substances, and smoking damages your lung tissue the second it is inhaled. Damaged lung cells behave abnormally, increasing the chances of lung cancer. According to studies by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, about 90% of lung cancer cases are caused by smoking, and those who do are 15 to 30 times more likely to get this disease.

A majority of people who develop lung cancer have a history of smoking tobacco. However, individuals don’t necessarily need to be smokers to be affected by these substances. Secondhand smoke also dramatically increases the risk of developing lung cancer.

The most common lung cancer in non-smokers is adenocarcinoma. It starts in the outer areas of the lungs. Additionally, cancer in non-smokers tends to grow and spread slower than those in smokers.

What Causes Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers?

According to the National Cancer Institute, between 10% to 20% of those who develop lung cancer have never smoked. Lung cancer in non-smokers can be caused due to many factors:

1. Exposure to radon

Radon, a harmful naturally occurring gas, often rises through the ground or small cracks in building foundations. Radon exposure is one of the primary causes of lung cancer.

2. Genetics

Genetics play a significant role in the development of lung cancer. Those who have a family history of lung cancer may be at risk, even if they do not smoke.

3. Exposure to asbestos and other harmful chemicals

Exposure to hazardous chemicals like asbestos can cause non-smoker lung cancer. It is usually caused by workplace exposure and can take from 30 to 50 years to develop.

4. Diet and exercise

A diet of healthy foods, including large amounts of fruits, veggies and other nutritious foods, can prevent lung cancer. Regular exercise is also important for lung health.

5. Air pollution

Lung cancer can also result from air pollution. In 2013, the World Health Organisation declared air pollution as a leading carcinogen. In particular, particle pollution or particulate matter was associated with increased cancer risk. Particulate matter is the presence of tiny liquid and solid particles in the air.

6. Gender

Gender can be another risk factor when it comes to lung cancer. Research shows that men have a 27% higher chance of developing lung cancer than women. However, this might be due to differences in smoking patterns. However, lung cancer in non-smokers is different. Studies show that between the ages of 40 and 79, lung cancer in non-smoking females is higher than in non-smoking males.

Early Symptoms of Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers

Early detection is critical to dealing with lung cancer. Warning signs to look for include:

1. A persistent cough that gets worse over time
2. Coughing up blood
3. Pain or discomfort in the chest
4. Wheezing or trouble breathing
5. Hoarseness in the voice and trouble swallowing
6. A loss of appetite or weight loss
7. Fatigue
8. Swelling in the neck and/or the face
9. Recurring lung infections and pneumonia

While smoking is a huge cause of lung cancer, non-smokers can also develop this disease. Resources such as lung function tests, screening tests, and regular checkups are crucial to early detection. If an individual is experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a medical professional for testing, diagnosis, and treatment. Visit Dr. Lal Pathlab’s website to learn more.

FAQs

1. Can Non-smokers Develop Lung Cancer?

Yes, non-smokers can develop lung cancer.

2. What are The Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

Symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, dizziness, bone pain, headaches, etc.