08/02/2024
Yesterday was World Lung Cancer Day. Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer. Unfortunately, my mother was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer several years ago. She smoked ci******es for 60+ years. I was stunned when she stopped smoking overnight in preparation for radiation treatment followed by chemotherapy. It was a challenge for me to stop smoking in July 1998--definitely not overnight. I am my mother's caregiver. She and I walked 3.1 miles to Costco and back several days ago. She is truly a walking miracle also battling to maintain her memories being stolen by dementia daily. Let's talk about why this is something ✨everyone✨ should be aware of even if you don't have a history of smoking.
According to the journal of the American Cancer Society, globally, lung cancer was the most frequently diagnosed cancer in 2022, responsible for almost 2.5 million new cases, or 1 in 8 cancers worldwide!!
There are 5 known causes of lung cancer:
1️⃣ 🚬 SMOKING
According to Lung.org, smoking causes about 90% of lung cancer cases, and while the risk goes down after you quit, it’s still elevated. Secondhand smoke is also linked to lung cancer, so if someone in your household smokes, everyone is at risk.
2️⃣☢️ RADON
The 2nd leading cause of lung cancer is radon - an invisible, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas found naturally in soil. Radon gas seeps up into your home through small gaps and cracks and levels are higher in basements and first floors. It’s estimated that 14–17% of lung cancer cases and 3% of all cancer mortality can be attributed to radon.
You can look up radon maps to see if there are higher levels of radon where you live. Radon mitigation systems are effective and pretty affordable.
3️⃣⚗️TOXIC CHEMICALS
Exposure to harmful chemicals like asbestos, arsenic, formaldehyde, and others is directly linked to lung cancer. DIY home reno projects are a common path of asbestos exposure, which typically happens within occupations like construction/renovation & automotive, arsenic can be found in drinking water, and formaldehyde in building materials.
4️⃣🏭PARTICULATE POLLUTION
Air pollution from industry, vehicle exhaust, and wildfires, especially small particles (PM2.5) can be highly dangerous and can lead to cancer and other respiratory issues.
5️⃣🧬GENETICS
Although a smaller risk factor, genetics can play a role in the development of lung cancer.
Testing your home for radon & asbestos, using VOC-free products, and improving ventilation in your living spaces are practical steps you can take to reduce exposure. Stay safe and breathe easy friends!
References: PMID: 38572751, PMID: 29856911, PMID: 31160966
https://lnkd.in/euEGT3ci
