What Causes Small Cell Lung Cancer?
The main cause of small cell lung cancer is smoking and second hand smoke exposure. Smoking firsthand greatly increases the risk factor for both small cell lung cancer and non-small lung cancer, and the same goes for secondhand smoke.Cigarettes contain hundreds of carcinogens, or agents known or suspected to cause cancer. Some of the carcinogens in cigarettes include:
- cyanide
- benzene
- formaldehyde
- ammonia
If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit. It is never too late to reap the health benefits of being a non-smoker! If you need a little help getting started or need support, check out About Smoking Cessation, a site devoted to those who want to kick the habit.
Other Factors that Increase Your Risk Factor for Small Cell Lung Cancer
The environment plays an important role in whether one develops lung cancer. Factors such as pollution levels, radon exposure, radiation, and exposure to asbestos can all increase the risk factor for lung cancer.
Sources: American Cancer Society: Questions About Smoking, Tobacco, and Health.
