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Lung cancer is often linked to smoking, but people who have never smoked can also get lung cancer. Most cancers cannot be pinned down to one cause. In almost every person with lung cancer, several risk factors are at play.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and in the Mountain West. But the good news is—by understanding the risks, even non-smokers can take steps to protect their lungs and lower the chances of getting lung cancer.
Lung Cancer Risks for Non-Smokers
Even if you have never smoked, you may still face risks for lung cancer. Here is what you need to know:
Air Pollution
Breathing dirty air, like diesel fumes, smog, and fire smoke can raise your risk of lung cancer. The , along with asbestos and radon.
Second-Hand Smoke
Breathing in smoke from other people’s cigarettes can increase your lung cancer risk by 25%, even if your exposure to second-hand smoke was in childhood.
Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas that you can’t see, smell, or taste and it increases your risk for lung cancer. In the Mountain West, many homes have radon gas at dangerous levels. Home radon tests are inexpensive, and there are ways to fix high radon levels in a home.
Lung Diseases and Family History
Having lung diseases like emphysema, chronic bronchitis, tuberculosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or having a personal or family history of lung or other cancers can also increase your risk even if you have never smoked.
Asbestos and Other Substances
Asbestos, which is a mineral used in industries for building materials, is made of tiny, easy-to-inhale fibers. People who have worked in shipbuilding, brake repair, insulation, plumbing, and construction can be exposed to asbestos and other substances such as arsenic, chromium, nickel, soot, and tar that can increase your risk for lung cancer.
What About Vaping?
While smoking tobacco remains the leading risk factor for lung cancer, vaping is emerging as a potential concern. Though long-term studies on vaping are still limited, we know that e-cigarettes expose users to chemicals that may harm lung tissue and lead to disease. Some early research suggests that vaping could increase the risk of lung disease and may even play a role in the development of lung cancer.
If you vape, consider the potential long-term effects on your lung health and look for ways to quit, just as you would with smoking. For non-vapers, be aware that second-hand exposure to vaping aerosols, like second-hand smoke, could carry risks as well.
By avoiding both smoking and vaping, you can help reduce your overall lung cancer risk, particularly as more information comes to light about the .
How Non-Smokers Can Lower Their Risk for Lung Cancer
While some risk factors like family history, prior cancers, or a family history of lung cancer cannot be changed, there are still many things you can do to lower your lung cancer risk.
Stay indoors on bad air days
When air pollution levels are high, avoid exercising outside, and take precautions in your home to keep your air clean.
Handle asbestos safely
If your home has asbestos products, such as old ceiling tile or insulation, hire a professional to remove it safely.
Use Protective Gear
Use protective gear at work to prevent exposure to harmful substances.
Avoid Second-Hand Smoke
Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke when possible.
Test Your Home for Radon
Test your home for radon every two years. You can get radon kits for a low cost or even free. If radon levels in your home are higher than 4.0 Ci/L, you should get a radon mitigation system installed. Learn more at or .
What are the Signs of Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer can grow for years without causing symptoms. For this reason, it is often not diagnosed until it is at an advanced stage. Talk to your doctor if you have any of these signs:
- Chest discomfort or pain
- A cough that won’t go away
- Ongoing upper respiratory infections
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
- Blood in your mucus
- Hoarseness
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme tiredness
These symptoms don’t always mean you have lung cancer, but it is important to know your body and watch for unusual changes. If you notice any of these symptoms, or don’t have symptoms but have risk factors for lung cancer, talk with your doctor. This may help you and your doctor find it in early stages, when treatments are more effective.
While lung cancer is serious, understanding your risks means you can take action to lower them. Testing for radon, improving your air quality, and avoiding harmful exposures are simple steps you can take to protect your health.
If you have questions or want more information, contact the Cancer Learning Center at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
Contact Us
Toll-free: 1-888-424-2100
Text: 801-528-1112
Email: cancerinfo@hci.utah.edu