Startling Updates on Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is notorious for being the number one cancer in both males and females. We know the basics that lung cancer will present itself predominantly in women and men who smoke. There have been new updates on lung cancer that you should know.

The Decrease of Lung Cancer

Good news! People are becoming more aware of how their actions could influence their health. Lung cancer rates are declining. There are fewer smokers today than there were years ago. In order to decrease your chances of developing lung cancer, you need to have given up smoking for a good many years until you’re in the clear. Even then, if you are a smoker or you used to smoke, it’s safer to get a lung cancer screening every year for at least 15 years after quitting.

Nonsmokers can get Lung Cancer

Even if you are not a smoker, there’s still a chance that you could have lung cancer. Studies have shown that 10% of people who have lung cancer are not smokers. They could have lung cancer due to exposure to the following:

• Secondhand smoke
• Asbestos
• Air Pollution
• Radon Gas
• Diesel Fumes

Radon Gas

Not many are aware of radon gas because it’s a silent killer. Radon does not have a scent, color or taste. It is predominantly a natural gas emitted from radioactive soil and rock. Usually, it could be found in the basement of homes. Approximately 6% of homes have a higher than normal level of radon. To be safe, get your home tested for radon.