Red Hot Tips Point: Causes and Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Tobacco Smoking: The Deadliest Habit:

Smoking tobacco is responsible for about 80% of lung cancer cases. It is by far the most dangerous risk factor. Smoking cigarettes aren't the only culprit; cigars, pipes, and hookah (a middle eastern type of smoking) all are known causes of lung cancer.

Marijuana:

Marijuana contains far more tar than normal cigarettes and because it is inhaled so deeply in the lungs, it is a risk factor for lung cancer. Statistics are hard to come by because of its illegal status.

Radon Exposure:

Radon is the result of broken down uranium. It is a gas that cannot be seen, felt or smelled. When radon is indoors, there is a risk for lung cancer. There is a great concern over house built on uranium deposits found in the soil.

Family History:

Studies have found a chromosome that may be resposible for lung cancer. The chromosome can be inherited. If you have had lung cancer before, there is a chance you may develop another type of lung cancer.

Recurring Infalmaation of the Lung:

Tuberculosis and pneumonia can leave scarring on the lungs. the scarring is a risk factor for lung cancer development, specifically adenocarcinoma.

Radiation Therapy:

If you have had radiation therapy to the chest, and are a smoker, you have an increased risk for developing lung cancer.

Carcinogens in the Workplace:

Cancer causing agents found in the workplace increases your risk factor. These carcinogens include uranium, arsenic, beryllium. vinyl chloride, nickel chromates, coal products, mustard gas, chloromethyl ethers, gasoline and diesel exhaust.

Asbestos Exposure:

Exposure to asbestos, a fiber found in industrial materials, is a big risk factor for lung cancer. Asbestos worker are 7 time more likely to develop and die from lung cancer. Add smoking to an asbestos worker, and he or she increases the risk by up to 90 times than the general public. Asbestos is no longer used in industrial and commercial products.