Risk Factors for Lung Cancer and Ways to Reduce These Risks - Dr Suruchi Aggarwal

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for the highest mortality rates among both men and women. Smoking, air pollution and genetic predisposition are some of the most common factors that affect one's risk of developing the disease.

Some key risk factors associated with lung cancer includes:

1. Active and passive smoking: Smoking tobacco and cigarettes is the primary risk factor for lung cancer. It is estimated that cigarette smoking explains almost 90% of lung cancer risk in men and 70 to 80% in women. Exposure to second-hand smoke, also known as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), increases the risk of lung cancer.

2. Environmental exposure: Lung cancer can be triggered by the constant air pollution and the inhalation of harmful gases and substances in the environment, such as exhaust smoke. This includes exposure to particulate matter, industrial emissions, and other carcinogens present in the air.

3. Genetic Predispositions: Individuals with a family history of lung cancer, particularly among first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children), have an increased risk of developing the disease themselves. For example, inherited mutations in genes like TP53 or RB1 can predispose individuals to lung cancer.

4. Exposure to harmful chemicals: Exposure to industrial substances like arsenic, chromium, nickel, soot, tar, radon, and heavy air pollution can elevate the risk of lung cancer. These substances can cause genetic and epigenetic changes in tumour genomes, that can impact pathways involved in lung cancer development.

5. Previous radiation therapy: People who have undergone radiation therapy to the chest area for other cancers, such as breast cancer or lymphoma, have an increased risk of developing lung cancer as a secondary malignancy.

Measures to reduce the risk of lung cancer:

• Avoid smoking or inhaling second-hand smoke by taking cautionary measures
• Minimize exposure to radon by testing your home and taking appropriate mitigation measures
• Maintain a balanced diet to bolster the body’s immunity
• Engage in regular physical exercise
• Explore early detection strategies, talk to a Genetic counselling expert to understand your risk.

While some lung cancer risk factors are unavoidable, many, like smoking and exposure to harmful substances, are modifiable.

By making healthy lifestyle choices, minimizing exposure to pollutants, regular checkups and in case of a family history of lung cancer, discussing genetic screening test options with a doctor, one can significantly reduce the risk and improve the chances of early detection and successful treatment.

Genetic testing not only helps in risk assessment for families but also informs surveillance strategies, early interventions and guide treatment options in affected individuals.