In men and women, lung cancer is the second most common cancer. As of today, per cancer.org, 14% of the new cancer cases found are types of lung cancer. More people die from lung cancer than other cancers. In fact, one in four cancer deaths is from lung cancer. It affects people of all ages, but for the most part lung cancer occurs in people over the age of sixty-five years.
There are three main types of lung cancer: Lung Carcinoid Tumor, Small Cell, and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Small cell cancer is also called small-cell carcinoma and is primarily caused by smoking. Not surprisingly, Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer can also be caused by smoking. Unfortunately, even if you are a non-smoker you can be at risk of lung cancer. Second-hand smoke is a danger to those around it and can cause lung cancer. If you are exposed to radon, air pollution, asbestos or even diesel exhaust you can be at risk. Some people inherit DNA changes from their parents which could greatly increase their risk of developing certain cancers, including lung cancer. There is still little known about what causes lung carcinoid tumors.
LEARN MORE: What is Radon and are You at Risk?
While we are learning more and more about lung cancer every day, we still don’t know what causes each case. Knowing the common risk factors can definitely help you live a healthier lifestyle that can lessen your chances of lung cancer. While there is no sure way to prevent lung cancer, you can definitely reduce the risk factors around you. Read more here at the Mayo Clinic: CLICK HERE.
Lung Cancer Clinical Trials
If you meet the eligibility criteria for a clinical trial, it might be an option for you if you are a lung cancer sufferer. There are many questions to ask when it comes to a clinical trial. What are the risks and potential side effects? Will the clinical trial be near me or will I have to travel? How do I find clinical trials and sign up for them? Clinical Ally has a search feature that can help. Search for trials by location and we can help put you in touch with the sponsors of trials where you can ask them questions about eligibility criteria, side effects, risks and more.
We have a long way to go in cancer research. You can donate to the American Cancer Society here and help make a difference in cancer research.
Other sources: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html