Various Factors That Cause Lung Cancer

Various Factors That Cause Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting millions of people worldwide every year. Until now, the main cause of the emergence of cancer is still uncertain. But experts have found a variety of possible causes and risk factors that contribute to the diagnosis of cancer.

Causes of lung cancer
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that about 90% of lung cancer cases are caused by smoking. Based on research, cigarettes contain poisons that trigger DNA mutations. Basically, the body continues to renew itself by dividing, replicating and forming new cells. When exposed to toxins in large quantities, the body becomes damaged and cannot repair itself. Over time, cells grow abnormally and out of control. This condition triggers the development of cancer.

Tobacco and cigarette smoke contain more than 7,000 cancerous chemicals, such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide. People who don't smoke can still be at risk of getting cancer by becoming passive smokers.

Smoking is not the only source of toxins that can harm lung health and cause cancer. Inhaling harmful substances, cancer-causing substances (carcinogens) such as asbestos and radon, also damage the cells lining your lungs. Over time, the cells will grow abnormally and eventually the cancer develops. Some other dangerous chemicals that can be found in the work environment are:

• Radon
• Asbestos
• Arsenic
• Beryllium
• Cadmium
• Vinyl chloride
• Nickel compound
• Chromium compound
• Coal Products
• Mustard gas
• Ether chloromethyl
• Diesel waste.

The chemicals above can be mixed with the air you breathe. Because they are odorless and tasteless, these chemicals are difficult to detect. In addition to the work environment, these chemicals can also be found in the house.

Other risk factors that contribute to lung cancer
Some other risk factors that you need to know are:

• Family history. Family members who have lung cancer are more likely to contribute to your lung cancer.
• Age. Lung cancer usually attacks older adults. You are at higher risk when you are 65 years old or older. The average age of a lung cancer sufferer is around 70 years.
• History of lung disease. You are at risk of developing lung cancer if you have had chronic lung disease, such as tuberculosis, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This lung disease causes inflammation and scarring in the lungs that can trigger lung cancer.
• Radiation therapy to the chest. Radiation therapy that has been done to treat other types of cancer can trigger lung cancer, especially if you are an active smoker.
• Cigarette smoke. Not many people are aware of the risk of lung cancer by being around active smokers. You inhale cancer-causing chemicals from cigarette smoke.
• Dietary habit. Proper nutrition is needed to repair damaged cells. Therefore, nutritional deficiencies can also increase the risk of lung cancer.

It is important to know the factors that cause lung damage. By managing risk factors, you can slow the progression of lung cancer. Moreover, supported by efforts to stop smoking. Just by stopping smoking, you have already made a big difference.