7 Risk Factors For Lung Cancer

Cancer is the second leading cause of death and lung cancer is the deadliest form of cancer.  Avoiding the risk for lung cancer and help you and your family avoid the potential for lung cancer.   This article will cover the 7 risk factors for avoiding the potential of lung cancer and tips on what you can do to reduce your risk.

1. Smoking:
   The CDC says that 80% of all lung cancer cases come from smoking.  People who smoke are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than those who do not smoke.  The longer and more frequently you smoke increases the risk for lung cancer.
2. Radon Exposure:
   Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.  Radon is an invisible gas that comes from uranium in the ground.  You can help protect yourself from radon by getting your home tested for radon and getting radon mitigation if your home test for high levels of radon.  The World Health Organization recommends getting radon mitigation if your level is over 2.7 picocuries.
3. Secondhand Smoke:
   Secondhand smoke is the third common risk for lung cancer.  Living with someone who does smoke, increases your chance of getting lung cancer.  The CDC estimates 3,000 people die from secondhand smoke each year in the U.S..
4. Air Pollution:
   Air pollution causes harmful particle gases to enter people's lungs when people breathe.  It is more harmful in urban and densely populated cities.  It is estimated that 62,000 worldwide lung cancer patients die from air pollution.
5. Asbestos Exposure:
   Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is carcinogenic.  Before asbestos was discovered to be dangerous, it was used in materials in construction, car materials, and industrial settings.  Breathing asbestos increases the chance of lung cancer and mesothelioma.
6. Family History Of Lung Cancer:
   People who have had family members with lung cancer have a 50% higher risk of developing lung cancer.  This is why it is very important to have screenings for lung cancer if you have a family history of lung cancer.
7. Exposure To Toxic Chemicals:
   Exposure to toxic chemicals can happen to anyone.  Chemicals such as arsenic, diesel fumes, nickel compounds, coal products, and other dangerous chemicals can add to the risk of getting lung cancer.

We encourage you to take steps to reduce your risk of lung cancer.  You can start by getting a radon test for your home to make sure you and your loved ones are safe from the effects of radon.  You can order your free test here.