Beyond the Smoker’s Stereotype: Know Your Real Lung Cancer Risk

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women, yet a major misconception persists: only smokers are at risk. Learn everything you need to understand your true risk for lung cancer in this WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation with Mohamed Mohamed, MD, Thoracic Medical Oncologist with Cone Health Cancer Center at Wesley Long Hospital.

How am I at risk for lung cancer?

"Any one of us is at risk for lung cancer," states Dr. Mohamed. "If you have lungs, you always have a risk." While the risk is undeniably higher for current and former smokers, and those with a family history, no one is immune.

Dr. Mohamed notes that while historically more men were diagnosed due to smoking trends in the mid-20th century, that gap is closing. As male smoking rates decline, the number of diagnoses among men and women is becoming almost equal. Interestingly, they are now seeing more women than men in younger age groups diagnosed with the disease.

What else could cause lung cancer?

The idea that non-smokers are safe is dangerous. Many patients presenting with lung cancer have never smoked. Leading non-smoking risk factors include:

• Radon Exposure: Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. It is naturally occurring, odorless, and colorless. About 40,000 people every year contract lung cancer due to radon exposure. Radon testing kits are commercially available, and testing can often be done for free through state programs.

• Occupational Hazards: Exposure to arsenic, silica dust, and certain chemicals in occupations like painting.

• Air Pollution

Non-smokers who develop persistent symptoms are often diagnosed late, as care providers may initially look for other reasons (like pneumonia or flu) because they mistakenly assume non-smokers do not get lung cancer.

What are the signs of lung cancer?

Lung cancer symptoms can be specific to the lungs or more general.

Dr. Mohamed cautions against passing off general fatigue as simply "the world we live in." Persistent symptoms of any kind should prompt a medical visit, starting with your primary care provider.

What does "early detection" screening mean?

The ability to detect lung cancer early is paramount to survival:

• Stage 1 and 2 lung cancer have a 5-year survival rate between 60% and 80%.

• Stage 4 lung cancer has a 5-year survival rate of only 10%.

50% to 60% of patients are currently diagnosed at the late stage. This is often because lung cancer causes few, if any, symptoms in the early stages. By the time noticeable symptoms appear, the cancer is frequently advanced.

Can I get screened for lung cancer?

If you have a history of smoking, talk to your provider about lung cancer screening. Candidates for screening should generally meet the following criteria:

• Age between 50 and 80.

• History of smoking within the last 15 years.

• 20 pack-year history of smoking (e.g., one pack a day for 20 years, or two packs a day for 10 years).

The screening is an annual low-dose CT scan of the lung, which uses less radiation than a standard CT scan. While there is no standard screening based on family history yet, those with a strong history of lung cancer should discuss their risk and potential for genetic counseling with their physician.

How can I reduce my risk for lung cancer?

Dr. Mohamed recommends the following:

1. Quit smoking if you currently smoke.

2. If you are a former smoker, get screened.

3. Test your home for radon exposure.

4. Avoid secondhand smoke.

5. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise.