Cells often mutate or change when you breathe in or are exposed to toxins. Unfortunately, harmful pollutants are around many of us every day. In fact, there are officially 187 hazardous toxins. If you have a history of smoking cigarettes or have had lots of exposure to harmful toxins, you may be at a higher risk. Here’s a breakdown of some main risk factors:
Tobacco smoke: Smoking is the number 1 cause of lung cancer. It’s linked to about 90% of all cases. Even if you’re a nonsmoker exposed to secondhand smoke, you may be at a greater risk.
Radon: Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that naturally exists in soil. And, it’s the second-leading cause of lung cancer. If this gas seeps up through the soil and into your home, it may greatly increase your chances.
Hazardous chemicals: Working with things like asbestos, uranium, arsenic, petroleum and nickel may increase your risk. If you’re exposed to these chemicals or other dust and fumes at work, talk to someone in charge of employee safety.
Particle pollution: There are a number of small solid and liquid particles (like the ones in exhaust smoke) that live in the air we breathe. Being exposed to a lot of particle pollution may increase your risk.
Radiation: If you’ve had radiation therapy on your lungs, your chances may increase — especially if you’re a smoker.
Genes: If a family member has been diagnosed with lung cancer, you may have a greater risk.