Earlier lung cancer was only linked to smoking, but now its cases are increasing in non-makers. It is caused by uncontrolled growth of lung cells. Researchers have found that apart from smoking, many other factors are also responsible for this. These include contact with air pollution radon gas, cigarette smoke of others, genetics factor, cooking smoke and some viral infections. This is a growing global health challenge, raising awareness and initial investigation is very important to deal with the danger.

Air pollution

Small particles like PM2.5 can enter cancer by entering the lungs. A study in 2022 has shown that air pollution makes the sleeping mutations already present in the lung cells active, which can cause cancer.

Radon gas exposure

Radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas, which can get out of the ground and accumulate in homes, especially the basement. According to the EPA, this lung is the second biggest cause of cancer and this is also the main cose in non-makers. Its identity is difficult without special equipment.

Secondhand smoke

Even if you do not smoke yourself, you can still get cancer with someone else’s smoke (secondhand smoke). According to the data of CDC, only 7,300 non-makers in America are caused by lung cancer due to secondhand smoke.

Genetic sensitivity and mutations

Some people have more risk of getting genetically lung cancer. Some mutations in EGFR genes are common in non-smoker lung cancer patients. Especially in female and young patients. The good thing is that for cancer with these mutations, now targeted treatments are present.

Indoor pollution from cooking fumes

In developing countries, cooking on biomass fuel like wood, coal or cow dung brings harmful smoke, which increases the risk of lung cancer. A 2020 study said that especially those women have more risk, who spend more time in cooking at home. Oil smoke emanating during frying is also a region of cancer.

Virus and infections

Researchers are also seeing that some viruses like HPV and EBV can trigger lung cancer in non-makers. These viruses can bring such changes in cells, which gradually makes tumors.

Awareness is necessary in lung cancer

In non -smokers, increasing the cases of lung cancer is a big consumption. According to Lung Cancer Research Foundation, by 2025, this disease will become the top cause of cancer deaths worldwide. In non -smokers, this cancer is often detected in late stage. Therefore, early diagnosis and detection are very critical. Many countries are now revising their screening guidelines, so that factors like pollution exposure and genetic risk can also be included. Apart from this, increasing awareness about environmental risk, conducting air quality tests in homes and promoting clean cooking technics. This disease can be very helpful in preventing this disease. This is a global health challenge, which requires a comprehensive approach.

Also read: Grown or whole chia seeds, how is the best way to eat for more benefits?

Disclaimer: Some information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.

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