disease or if a relative was diagnosed at a young age. The increased risk may be due to exposure to the same environmental risk factors, including tobacco smoke, or possibly, in rare cases, to an inherited mutation.
People who have had lung cancer themselves are at increased risk of developing a second lung tumor; this is more likely among smokers.
Radiation therapy
People who have had radiation therapy to the chest for cancers other than lung cancers have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. These include those who have been treated for Hodgkin lymphoma and women with breast cancer who were treated with radiation after a mastectomy. The lung cancer may take many years to develop. Note that modern radiation therapy techniques and practices may be able to reduce this risk, but it is still a risk to be discussed with your doctor.
Age 65 and older
Age is a factor in lung cancer risk. More than two-thirds of people diagnosed with lung cancer are 65 years or older when diagnosed.
History of lung disease
Having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema, or pulmonary fibrosis, which causes scarring in lung tissue, increases lung cancer risk. In both cases, smoking increases the risk.
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Diet
Drinking water from public sources is tested to ensure that the level of arsenic is below that which could cause any adverse effects, but arsenic in drinking water from private sources, e.g., wells can increase lung cancer risk; this water should also be tested.
There has been some evidence to show that smokers and those who have been exposed to asbestos and take high-dose beta-carotene supplements over a long period of time are more likely to develop lung cancer, so these supplements should be avoided. This is not the case for foods that are high in beta-carotene; these foods are considered safe.
Although lung cancer is not entirely preventable, taking the appropriate measures to make lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of developing lung cancer or even having it return. You can consult with your doctor for the best ways to implement changes into your lifestyle.
This content is brought to you by The LUNGevity Foundation and the BDO Editorial Staff.