Lung Cancer Guide

Here are the cold facts about lung cancer - it's hard to find early and difficult to treat. However, lung cancer is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. By avoiding certain risk factors for lung cancer, we can reduce our chances of developing it.

1) Quit smoking
Smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer. It is estimated that 87% of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking.

2) Listen to Mom, and eat those fruits and veggies!
Fruits and vegetables are rich with antioxidants and flavonoids. Antioxidants and flavonoids help protect your cell's DNA and repair damaged cells.

3) Have your home tested for radon. Radon is the result of broken down uranium. It is a radioactive gas that cannot be seen, felt, smelled or tasted. Uranium occurs naturally in the soil, and the fear is that homes are being built over natural deposits, creating high levels of indoor radon exposure, which can lead to lung cancer.

4) Know what you are being exposed to in the workplace.
If you are exposed to fumes, dust, and chemicals in the workplace, you have a right to know what you are being exposed to. Talk to your employer about limiting exposure to possible carcinogens.

5) Avoid secondhand smoke.
Secondhand smoke contains over 60 known carcinogens. These carcinogens interrupt normal cell development. This interference of cell development is what starts the cancer process.