Can Smoking Heighten Lung Cancer Risk?

Hello 

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.

 

1. Possibilities:

 

Direct Link: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for approximately 85% of cases in the United States.

Risk Factors: Smoking introduces carcinogens into the lungs, leading to genetic mutations and cellular damage that can result in cancerous growth.

Secondhand Smoke: Exposure to secondhand smoke also increases the risk of lung cancer, albeit to a lesser extent than active smoking.

 

2. Recommendations:

 

Quit Smoking: The most effective way to reduce the risk of lung cancer is to quit smoking entirely. Quitting at any age can lower your risk, and support is available through cessation programs and resources.

Avoid Secondhand Smoke: Minimize exposure to secondhand smoke by avoiding enclosed spaces where smoking is allowed and encouraging smokers to smoke outdoors.

Regular Screening: If you have a history of smoking, consider regular lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) to detect cancer in its early stages when treatment is most effective.

 

Thanks