The most common cause of lung cancer is smoking, including both active smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Smoking is responsible for approximately 85-90% of all lung cancer cases. This includes cigarettes, cigars, and pipes.
Other significant causes and risk factors include:
1. Radon Gas Exposure: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes and workplaces.
2. Air Pollution: Long-term exposure to polluted air, including particulate matter, increases lung cancer risk.
3. Occupational Hazards: Exposure to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, or other carcinogens at work.
4. Family History: Genetic predisposition to lung cancer.
5. Pre-existing Lung Diseases: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis.
6. Radiation Therapy: Previous radiation to the chest area.
7. Non-Smoking Factors: Lung cancer can still occur in non-smokers due to factors like genetic mutations or prolonged exposure to toxins.
Preventive measures such as quitting smoking, reducing radon exposure, and avoiding air pollutants can significantly lower the risk of lung cancer.
