Not Just from Cigarettes, Here Are Other Factors That Can Cause Lung Cancer

Kapanlagi.com - Lung cancer is often directly associated with smoking habits. However, recent data and facts show that many lung cancer patients actually come from non-smokers. This means that the causes of lung cancer are far more complex than we have previously imagined.

According to a report from CNBC Indonesia, about 85-90% of lung cancer cases found in non-smokers arise from factors other than cigarette smoke. Exposure to air pollution and hazardous chemicals in the surrounding environment can be triggers. This makes lung cancer a serious threat that can affect anyone, regardless of smoking habits.

Therefore, recognizing various causes and risk factors is the first step to maintaining lung health from an early age.

1. Cigarettes Remain the Biggest Trigger

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer due to the carcinogenic substances it contains. These substances continuously damage the lung cell lining, and this repeated damage triggers cell mutations into cancer. The more cigarettes smoked per day, the higher the risk of developing lung cancer.

The body actually has the ability to repair cells damaged by smoking, but if exposure continues, this ability diminishes. That is why active smokers have a greater likelihood of developing lung cancer. However, this does not mean that quitting smoking in adulthood is not beneficial---in fact, it significantly reduces the risk, even after years of smoking.

Surprisingly, passive smokers or people who are frequently exposed to cigarette smoke also have a comparably high risk. They may not smoke directly, but harmful particles still enter the respiratory tract and slowly damage lung tissue.

2. Air Pollution and Contaminated Environment

In addition to cigarettes, exposure to air pollution is another major cause of lung cancer. CNBC Indonesia states that long-term exposure to dirty air can trigger chronic inflammation and damage to the lungs. Vehicle exhaust, industrial smoke, and even dust inside homes can be sources of invisible yet deadly pollutants.

Especially for those living in large cities with poor air quality, the risk of exposure to PM2.5 particles is very high. These microscopic particles can enter the lung alveoli and disrupt the immune system. Over time, the damage that occurs can lead to the development of cancer cells.

Working or living in environments contaminated with carcinogenic toxic substances such as asbestos, ethers, hydrocarbons, and inorganic arsenic also significantly contributes to lung cancer. This means that factory workers, construction workers, and even households using certain chemicals must remain vigilant.

3. Family History and Genetic Factors

Lung cancer can also arise due to hereditary factors in the family. If someone has parents, siblings, or close relatives who have had lung cancer, the risk increases significantly. This is caused by certain genes that can make the body more susceptible to cancer cell mutations.

However, these genetic factors do not mean that a person will definitely develop lung cancer. They only increase the likelihood, especially when combined with a poor lifestyle and a polluted environment. Therefore, it is important for those with a family history of lung cancer to undergo regular check-ups.

Early detection is key in preventing the further development of cancer. One recommended form of screening is low-dose CT scans, especially for those with a combination of risk factors such as being over 50 years old, family history, and exposure to carcinogenic substances.

4. 9 Symptoms of Lung Cancer That Are Often Taken Lightly

Lung cancer often develops silently without clear symptoms in the early stages. Because its symptoms resemble mild infections, many people ignore it. However, the sooner it is recognized, the greater the chance of being treated effectively.

Here is a list of lung cancer symptoms that are often misinterpreted or not taken seriously:

1. Persistent Cough

A cough that does not go away for more than three weeks can be an early sign of lung cancer. Especially if the cough worsens over time, accompanied by a hoarse voice or chest pain.

2. Shortness of Breath

If you feel quickly out of breath even with light activity, this could be a signal of impaired lung function. Shortness of breath occurs because the growth of cancer cells obstructs the airways.

3. Hoarseness

A change in voice to a persistent hoarseness over several weeks should be taken seriously. This condition could indicate tumor pressure on the vocal cord nerve.

4. Constant Chest Pain

Pain in the chest that does not go away, especially when taking deep breaths or laughing, may indicate irritation or inflammation due to cancer. This is different from pain caused by regular muscle or bone issues.

5. Coughing Up Blood

The presence of blood when coughing is a symptom that should not be ignored. It indicates possible bleeding in the respiratory tract due to lung tissue damage.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss

Drastic weight loss without dieting or excessive exercise can indicate serious problems in the body, including lung cancer that disrupts metabolism.

7. Loss of Appetite

Patients with lung cancer often experience a loss of interest in eating, which can accelerate weight loss and worsen overall body condition.

8.Extreme Fatigue

The body feels excessively tired even with little activity, which is a systemic symptom of cancer. The body's energy is drained to fight the growth of abnormal cells.

9.Swelling of Lymph Nodes

Swelling of the glands around the lungs can indicate that cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This can be seen in the neck or armpit area and feels like small lumps.

5. 7 Effective Ways to Prevent Lung Cancer Early

Prevention is always better than cure, especially for diseases like lung cancer that are often detected when already severe. Not only active smokers, everyone needs to be vigilant—especially if frequently exposed to pollution or harmful chemicals.

Here are some preventive measures you can apply starting now:

1.Quit Smoking Right Now

Cigarettes are the leading cause of lung cancer. The sooner you quit, the greater the chance for your body to recover from cell damage. Even those who have smoked for years can significantly reduce their risk after quitting.

2.Avoid Exposure to Cigarette Smoke

Being a passive smoker also carries a high risk of lung cancer. Stay away from smoking areas and avoid being in enclosed environments filled with cigarette smoke. If living with a smoker, ask them to smoke outside the house.

3.Use a Mask in Polluted Areas

It is advisable to wear a mask, especially in areas with high pollution levels. Masks can filter harmful particles such as PM2.5 that can penetrate deep into the lungs. Choose an N95 mask or a similar one that effectively filters pollutants.

4.Maintain Air Quality at Home

Ensure good air circulation in the house. Use an air purifier, avoid toxic chemicals, and open windows regularly for air exchange. Clean air indoors is just as important as outdoor air.

5. Increase Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables

Foods high in antioxidants, such as green vegetables and berries, help combat cell damage caused by free radicals. A healthy diet also strengthens the immune system and lowers the risk of various types of cancer, including lung cancer.

6.Regular Exercise

Physical activity strengthens the respiratory system and improves body oxygenation. Just 30 minutes of light exercise such as walking, cycling, or swimming each day is very beneficial. Besides being good for the lungs, exercise is also good for the heart and mental health.

7.Undergo Regular Lung Check-ups

For those with high-risk factors—such as family history, former smokers, or frequent exposure to chemicals—lung screening should be done regularly. Low-dose CT scans are one effective method for early detection.

Additional tip: Prevention is not about one big habit, but about many small habits that are consistently practiced. Start with the easiest first, then gradually increase.

6. Questions About Lung Cancer

What are the early symptoms of lung cancer?

The early symptoms of lung cancer can include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.

Will everyone exposed to radon develop lung cancer?

Not everyone exposed to radon will develop lung cancer, but long-term exposure can increase the risk.

How can lung cancer be prevented?

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to not smoke, avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, and keep the environment clean from pollution.

Does lung cancer only occur in smokers?

No, lung cancer can also occur in non-smokers, especially those exposed to other risk factors like air pollution and radon.

(kpl/frr)