Causes and Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

The second most leading cause of death that accounts for approximately 15% of all the cancer cases is lung cancer. Lung cancer is a global threat in the current world scenario. Lung cancer can be deadly and with so many cases every year it is important that you know the causes for this disease. Here are a few:

• Smoking

Even though popular culture and the media portray smoking to be a cool thing to do, the truth remains bitter. Smoking is undoubtedly one of the leading causes of lung cancer. Occasional smoking has a lesser impact than a prolonged smoking habit. The longer you are addicted to this mortal disease called smoking the greater is your risk of developing lung cancer. Not only first-hand smoking, but also second-hand or passive smoking puts you at risk of lung cancer. In case of passive smoking, onset of lung cancer depends on your exposure to it. Almost 15 to 35 per cent of lung cancer cases among those who never had smoke are caused due to second-hand smoking. Smoking also increases the chances of other fatal diseases, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

• Exposure to Irritants and Heavy Metals

Asbestos, chemicals, dusts, gases, moulds and pollens can also become a threat to your lung. Prolonged exposure to such heavy metals has been known to be a cause for lung cancer. Also, exposure to asbestos fibres is another known cause of this type of cancer. The asbestos fibres become airborne and get inside your lungs as you inhale the air around you. This type of cancer remains undetectable for many years and thus, becomes deadly by the time it is diagnosed. Heavy metals such as cadmium, chromium, and arsenic possess a danger of lung cancer. Arsenic contaminates drinking water and hence becomes a causative factor. If exposed to pesticides, especially agent orange which is a mix, chances of lung cancer persists.

• Exposure to Radon Gas

Radon gas is known to be the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon gas which is a radioactive pollutant formed by the breakdown of uranium in soil, water and rock contributes to 12 per cent of total lung cancer cases. A person is exposed to radon gas through soil, cracks in pipes and drains and construction material. However, you wouldn't know that you are being exposed to radon as it cannot be smelt or seen.

• Nutritional Deficiencies

All types of cancer, including lung cancer occurrence is associated with low levels of anti-oxidant vitamins. In order to prevent their decay from cigarette smoke, body cells consume the anti-oxidant nutrients present in them. With dietary deficiencies, the already depleted cells lose more of their nutrients. And thus nutritional deficiencies contribute to the risk of lung cancer.