Lung cancer prevention goes beyond avoiding smoking. More than half of people who develop lung cancer at this time are not current smokers. Hee are 10 things you can do to lower your risk.
1.ย ย ย Don’t smoke
Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for 80 to 90 percent of lung cancers.
It is never too late to quit smoking. For those who have been diagnosed with lung cancer, smoking cessation may improve survival.
2.ย ย ย Check your home for Radon
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall. Radon is an odourless gas that results from the decay of natural uranium in the soil beneath our homes.
3.ย ย ย Be careful at work
It’s estimated that up to 29 percent of lung cancers in men are related to on-the-job exposures to cancer-causing substances. The number is slightly lower, estimated at five percent of lung cancers in women having an occupational component.
4.ย ย ย Be careful and aware at home
Lung cancer prevention is important at home as well. Chemicals that contribute to lung cancer are found not only at the workplace but may be under your sink or in your garage. Wood smoke from wood-burning stoves and fireplaces may also increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
5.ย ย ย Avoid secondhand smoke
Living with a smoker increases your chance of developing lung cancer by 20 to 30 percent.
6.ย ย ย Exercise
Even moderate amounts of exercise can aid in lung cancer prevention.
7.ย ย ย Eat variety of fruits and vegetables
A diet rich in fruits in vegetables is linked with a lower risk of developing lung cancer.
