Lung cancer has always been and continues to be more common in men than women. However, the rate of lung cancer death in men has been declining since 1990, and the rate continues to rise in women. There are probably many reasons for this situation. One study has suggested that female hormones like estrogen may play a role in the development of lung cancer in women. Women tend to get a certain subtype of lung cancer that may be linked to estrogen.
Cigarette smoking remains the main cause of lung cancer in women, however.
The percentage of women who smoke is projected to surpass the percentage of men who smoke in the future. These diseases include not only lung cancer but also heart disease and other lung diseases. Always consult your own doctor about any opinions or recommendations with respect to your symptoms or medical condition. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center .