Lung cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases to afflict humanity. It has no cure if detected at an advanced stage. There are various causes attributed to lung cancer, but the good part is that most of these causes are entirely preventable.
Cigarette Smoking: Leading Cause of Lung Cancer
The primary cause of lung cancer in the world today is cigarette smoking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that over 90% of lung cancer deaths in men, and over 80% in women in the United States are caused due to cigarette smoking. The incidence of lung cancer is much higher in people above the age of 65.
The occurrence of lung cancer is clearly correlated to the quantity of tobacco consumed per day by a person. The higher the consumption and the longer the period of consumption, the greater is the risk of lung cancer. Even when a person gives up smoking, he is still at a higher risk as compared to non-smokers.
Involuntary Smoking
The available data on smoking reveals that there is a connection between lung cancer and non-smokers who are exposed to cigarette smoke. Second-hand smoking is a serious cause of lung cancer. Cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, some of which are directly responsible for the exacerbation of lung cancer. There is sufficient scientific evidence to suggest that non-smokers are at the risk of getting lung cancer if they are subjected to second-hand tobacco smoke over a period of time.
Exposure to Asbestos and Radon
Radon gas has been attributed as one of the key causes of lung cancer among non smokers. This gas which originates from rocks and dirt beneath the earth, cannot be seen or smelt but may be there in homes and buildings. Prolonged exposure to other harmful substances such as asbestos, arsenic, silica and chromium in some shape or the other also substantially heightens the chances of lung cancer among non smokers.
Family History and Genetic Factors
A family history of lung cancer may have a role to play in causing lung cancer. There might be a common behaviour such as smoking which may run in the families. It is well documented that lung cancer runs in families. Furthermore, there may also be a genetic role in cancer of lung. The relationship between lung cancer and genetic history is not clear established, but the research in this area seems to point towards a connection between the two.
Unhealthy or Unbalanced Diet
Dietary factors may also play a significant role in causing lung cancer. It is advisable to refrain from a diet that is rich in fat and cholesterol. Prolonged use of alcohol is also associated to the risk of lung cancer. The scientific evidence to determine a clear relation between diet and lung cancer is still insufficient, but there are indications that dietary factors may contribute to the problem to a certain extent.
Sources:
CDC.gov "Lung Cancer" (accessed May 10, 2010)
Cancer.gov "Lung Cancer" (accessed May 10, 2010)
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