Lung Cancer Myths vs. Facts
What do you think of when you hear the phrase “lung cancer“? If you think only smokers can get it, think again. Although lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., it‘s important to understand the facts so you can protect your health. In this article, we’re revealing the top three myths about lung cancer and giving you the facts. Equipped with this information, you and your loved ones can be proactive about preventing lung cancer, as well as identifying the signs of it.
Lung Cancer Myths: Smoking is the only cause of lung cancer.
Although smoking is the biggest cause of lung cancer, there are other culprits out there. Lung cancer is often labeled a smokers’ disease. But there are many lung cancer patients who haven‘t ever used tobacco. In fact, about 20% of lung cancer deaths occur in people who have never smoked, according to the American Cancer Society. Adenocarcinoma, a type of non-small cell lung cancer, can sometimes occur in nonsmokers, women and the young.
Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke and chemicals, such as asbestos, have also been identified as contributing factors to lung cancer in non-smokers. Another cause of lung cancer is an odorless radioactive gas called radon. Emitted by rock and soil, radon can work its way into homes. You can test your house or office for it by hiring a professional, such as a certified home inspector.
Another threat: air pollution. People who live in areas with a lot of polluted air, particularly urban or industrial areas, are more likely to get lung cancer than those who live in areas with clean air.
And don’t forget about the health risks caused by other tobacco products. Just like cigarettes, cigars put you at a greater risk for cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus and lungs.
Researchers are just beginning to understand the difference in lung cancer development between smokers and non-smokers. The bottom line: lung cancer can happen to anyone.
Lung Cancer Myths: If I get diagnosed with lung cancer, there’s no point in quitting smoking.
Quitting smoking after a lung cancer diagnosis actually has numerous benefits. Quitting smoking can:
- Benefit your cancer treatment, minimize side effects and ease recovery.
- Increase your probability of survival by 30% to 40%.
- Improve your circulation and lung function.
- Decrease your chances of developing a secondary cancer or having the cancer return. Ten years after you kick the habit, your risk of dying from the disease drops by 50% compared to people who continue to smoke.
And the list goes on. If you’re thinking about quitting, it‘s not too late.
Lung Cancer Myths: There isn’t a way to detect lung cancer before it starts to cause symptoms.
Lung scans are available at Craft Body Scan. These scans are recommended for people in high-risk demographic groups, including people who smoke or who have smoked in the past. They are designed to detect tumors and catch cancer early. Catching cancer early is when patients have the greatest opportunity to get treated successfully and beat the disease.
A lung scan uses computed tomography (CT), a diagnostic tool for viewing the lungs without requiring an invasive procedure. A lung CT scan provides a clear look at the lungs, displaying much more detail than a traditional x-ray. Some patients choose to have a lung CT scan performed once a year to stay ahead of any health issues and get peace of mind, or upgrade to a full body scan.
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