Lung Cancer
Lung cancer, or cancer that starts in the lungs, actually develops in lung cells. Cancer begins in cells. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place. Sometimes, this orderly process goes wrong. New cells form when the body does not need them, and old cells do not die when they should. These extra cells can form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor. These masses can sometimes be cancerous.
Doctors cannot always explain why one person develops lung cancer and another does not. However, we do know that a person with certain risk factors may be more likely than others to develop lung cancer. Risk factors for lung cancer include:
- Tobacco smoke: Tobacco smoke causes most cases of lung cancer. It's by far the most important risk factor for lung cancer. Harmful substances in smoke damage lung cells. That's why smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars can cause lung cancer and why secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer in nonsmokers.
- Radon: Radon is a radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste. It forms in soil and rocks. People who work in mines may be exposed to radon. In some parts of the country, radon is found in houses. Radon damages lung cells, and people exposed to radon are at increased risk of lung cancer.
- Asbestos and other substances: People who have certain jobs (such as those who work in the construction and chemical industries) have an increased risk of lung cancer. Exposure to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, soot, tar, and other substances can cause lung cancer.
- Air pollution: Air pollution may slightly increase the risk of lung cancer.
- Family history of lung cancer: People with a father, mother, brother, or sister who had lung cancer may be at slightly increased risk of the disease, even if they don't smoke.
- Personal history of lung cancer: People who have had lung cancer are at increased risk of developing a second lung tumor.
- Age over 65: Most people are older than 65 years when diagnosed with lung cancer.
Quitting smoking or never starting is one of the best ways to prevent lung cancer. For more information on lung cancer, visit: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/lung/. People who think they may be at risk for developing lung cancer should talk to their healthcare provider.