Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% of lung cancer diagnoses. It occurs when cells in the lungs start to grow in a rapid and uncontrollable way. This then leads to the development of a malignant (cancerous) tumour which causes damage to the lungs. There are a number of factors that can affect your NSCLC risk and in this article I will be discussing three of them. 1) SMOKING:- Smoking is the most significant risk factor for any type of lung cancer. It can strongly increase your chances of developing non-small cell lung cancer. The reason for this is that tobacco smoke is loaded with cancer causing chemicals known as carcinogens. When you inhale cigarette smoke over 70 different types of carcinogens are transported to your lungs greatly increasing the risk of cancerous growths developing. Smokers are thought to be 10 times more likely to develop NSCLC than non-smokers. Heavy smokers (those who smoke 20 plus cigarettes each day) are up to 40 times more likely to develop this condition (depending upon how heavy their smoking habit is). Even people who do not smoke may be at an increased risk if they spend a lot of time in smoky environments. 2) RADON:- Radon is a gas that is created when uranium breaks down. It is a radioactive substance and therefore prolonged exposure to this gas can increase your non-small cell lung cancer risk. If you are exposed to radon and you smoke you have an even greater chance of developing NSCLC. 3) GENES:- Research has suggested that there is a genetic link between NSCLC and your level of risk if you smoke. Whilst all smokers are more likely to develop this type of cancer than non-smokers, certain smokers may be more at risk because of their family history. However, it is currently not know which genes are responsible for this increased non-small cell lung cancer risk. I hope this article has shown you the significance that smoking can have on your chances of contracting NSCLC. Whilst there are other risk factors this is by far the most prevalent. You can choose whether or not you smoke and this has a direct influence on your non-small cell lung cancer risk. Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Lung cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.
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