Introduction
Globally, lung cancer poses a major health threat and leads to more fatalities than any other form of cancer. Although smoking is the usual cause, individuals who do not smoke can also develop lung cancer if they are exposed to secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos, or other hazardous environmental substances. Consequently, addressing the risk factors related to lung cancer is crucial in decreasing its prevalence (Tao, 2019). Here are some recommendations that could assist individuals in reducing their chances of contracting lung cancer.
Prevention of Lung Cancer
Firstly, the most crucial step in reducing the risk of lung cancer is to quit smoking or never to start in the first place. Nearly 85% of all cases of lung cancer can be attributed to smoking, making it the primary cause (Schabath & Cote, 2019). The risk of lung cancer decreases with each year following smoking cessation, regardless of how long or much one has smoked. Many resources, including medications and counseling, can help quit smoking.
Subsequently, stay away from secondhand smoke. People who don’t smoke that are exposed to secondhand smoke in their home or job can increase their risk of lung cancer by 20-30% (Schabath & Cote, 2019). Designate your home and car as smoke-free and opt for smoke-free public places. Third, test your house for radon, which is an invisible, odorless gas found in soil and rock that is a major cause of lung cancer.
If you work with known carcinogens such as asbestos, arsenic, diesel exhaust, silica, or chromium, take steps to stop yourself from breathing or ingesting these substances. Furthermore, incorporating regular physical activity and consuming a diet abundant in fruits and vegetables can contribute to maintaining optimal health and decreasing the likelihood of developing different types of cancers, including lung cancer (Neskey, 2020). It is also wise to have regular health check-ups, since early diagnosis of any malignancy significantly raises the chances of successful treatment.
Conclusion
To conclude, lung cancer is a dangerous illness, but its likelihood can be greatly decreased by taking proactive steps. Individuals can greatly reduce their chances of developing lung cancer by taking steps such as quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke, testing their homes for radon, prioritizing safety in the workplace, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular medical check-ups are also crucial for early detection. Although these measures do not guarantee immunity from lung cancer, they do provide a strong defense against this deadly disease.
References
Neskey, M. (2020). Nutrition and lung cancer.
Schabath, M. B., & Cote, M. L. (2019). Cancer progress and priorities: Lung cancer. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention, 28(10), 1563-1579. Web.
Tao, M. H. (2019). Epidemiology of lung cancer. Lung Cancer and Imaging, 4-1.