The Dangers Of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer in the UK; breast cancer is more common, but lung cancer is by far the most common cancer in men. Whilst every form of cancer deserves research and increasing developments in treatment, lung cancer often gets pushed aside due to its relation to smoking, but this should not be the case.

Whilst numbers of smokers is slowly declining, there are many people who are trying to quit – especially as a result of such campaigns as Stoptober brought about by the NHS and the government. This decline in smoker numbers is good news for everyone, but it is only the first step and may take a while to have the effects felt across the whole population.

Whether you smoke or not, it is still sensible to know some of the more common causes of lung cancer as it is so prolific. Most cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking – figures vary from 50% to 90% – so this in undeniable, but there are other factors too. One interesting statistic is that while the UK’s smoking population has halved over the last 50 years, the decline in lung cancer has not followed to the same extent; even when taking into account population growth. This shows that there are other factors which are causing the often deadly disease.

Arguably the second most common factor is that of asbestos exposure. When asbestos is breathed in it can take decades to cause adverse health effects. Asbestos fibres are incredibly small and often get through the lungs filtration system, which is where the lung cancer can come from, as well as other lung conditions such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Sufferers of asbestos related lung cancer can sometimes claim compensation for the disease as the exposure is often work related. Companies such as Asbestos Advice Helpline are available to help people get the compensation they deserve.

Numerous chemicals have been proven to be a factor in the appearance of lung cancer, with one of the most common being radon. It can appear naturally in some stones, which can cause exposure in certain parts of the UK, the most common being the West Country and the Peak District. This usually is not enough to form lung cancer itself, but can exaggerate the effects of smoking.

Exhaust fumes from traffic have also been proven to increase the risks of contracting lung cancer, especially through long term exposure. The risk can be increased by up to 50% if someone is subjected to a lot of exhaust fumes on a frequent basis.

In addition to these factors, there are other things which can increase the danger; age, genetics, family history, diet and numerous other things can increase the risk by various degrees. These last factors are more related on chance, but the factors such as smoking, asbestos and other chemicals are things which people should be aware of and try to avoid.