What are the Causes of Lung Cancer?

The number one cause of lung cancer is smoking. This includes not only people who smoke, but those who are exposed to secondhand smoke on a regular or prolonged basis as well. Other causes of lung cancer include the use of smokeless tobacco, and exposure to radon gas.

Smoking has been found to be one of the most common causes of lung cancer around the world. In fact, the American Lung Association has determined it to be the number one cause of lung cancer deaths in the United States. Not only are people who smoke up to ten times more likely to develop lung cancer than those who don't smoke, but they are also at risk for a number of other serious conditions, including heart disease, strokes, and other life-threatening conditions. While there is no question that smoking is significantly linked to the development of lung cancer, the research isn't all negative. Some studies have found that individuals who remain smoke free for 10 years experience lung cancer development rates at only around 30% of that of a current smoker.

Next to smoking, the leading cause of lung cancer is exposure to radon gas. Radon gas can often leak through the soil, entering one's home through cracks in the foundation as well as through drains or pipes. Radon gas may not be one of the most significant causes of lung cancer, but it is considered the second leading cause of lung cancer in the US.

As more and more research is done on the dangers of radon gas, more companies have begun to make detectors that can be used to locate radon gas in homes and businesses. These kits can be purchased over the counter and are easy enough for anyone to use effectively. If a home or business being tested for radon gas tests positive with one of these detectors, the building should be re-examined by a professional in order to determine the severity of the radon gas leak.

The use of smokeless tobacco is another one of the common causes of lung cancer. While these items more often lead to cancers of the throat, mouth, and tongue, in rare cases the cancer can also spread to the lungs. As with smoking, an individual who has stopped using smokeless tobacco for even one day can significantly decrease their risk of lung cancer.