Are You at Risk for Lung Cancer in NJ, CT, MD or the Washington, DC Area?

The leading cancer killer in both men and women in the U.S., lung cancer arises because of changes in the cells of the lungs. These changed cells grow faster than normal cells, damaging lung tissue in the process, and forming tumors. There are two main types of lung cancer – small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and the more common non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). There are several subtypes of these main types of lung cancer, as well as other forms of lung cancer, such as lung carcinoid tumors. Becoming aware of lung cancer risk factors can encourage appropriate screenings early detection, and effective cancer treatment. Risk factors include:

• Smoking: This is the top lung cancer risk factor. While most research has focused on tobacco smoke in cigarettes, pipes, and cigars, researchers also point to marijuana smoke as another risk factor.
• Secondhand smoke: Family members and others who inhale smoke generated by people smoking tobacco or marijuana nearby also are at risk of developing lung cancer.
• Lung scarring: Often, this is caused by tuberculosis and other pulmonary conditions.
• Exposure to environmental toxins and chemical agents: This category includes a variety of gases and chemicals, both human-made and naturally occurring:
  • Diesel exhaust: This affects those exposed on busy roads and in some driving occupations. It’s also a component of air pollution.
  • Radon: This is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that occurs in soil and can be encountered inside houses and other dwellings.
  • Asbestos: A mineral fiber found in rocks and soil, asbestos long was used by the construction industry in domestic and commercial buildings and structures.
  • Arsenic and other chemicals: These might be encountered in the workplace and include coal products, nickel compounds, cadmium, silica, talc, beryllium, mustard gas, vinyl chloride, and chloromethyl ethers. Arsenic found in water supplies also increases the risk of lung cancer.
  • Uranium: This radioactive ore is found in uranium mines, rocks, and some water sources.
  • Herbicides, battlefield emissions, and nuclear propulsion: Some military veterans show an increase in lung cancer risk factors due to these exposures, as have some munitions plant employees.
• Air pollution: Increased particles in the air we breathe, such as industrial exhaust, as well as microscopic solids and liquids released into the atmosphere, are another lung cancer risk factor.
• Family history: If family members have been diagnosed with lung cancer, especially if younger than 50 years old, there may be an increased risk. This might be due to shared exposure to environmental factors.
• Radiation therapy: Patients who have received radiation therapy as a treatment for cancer, such as breast cancer, may have a higher risk for lung cancer.