Lung Cancer Risk Factors

This information has been reviewed and approved by James R. Jett, MD (October 2012).

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Summary: Lung Cancer Risk Factors

Lung cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer

The Odds

• Men have a 1 in 13 chance of getting lung cancer
• Lung cancer affects 1 in 16 women
• These statistics include both smokers and nonsmokers

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

1. Smoking cigarettes increases risk 20 times
2. Radon, a radioactive gas found in soil
3. Asbestos, a toxic chemical
4. Environmental tobacco exposure
5. Genetics in a first-degree relative
6. Other lung diseases
7. Prior radiation in the chest area

New Lung Cancer Cases Each Year

226,160 - greater than the population of Scottsdale, AZ

Lung Cancer Deaths Each Year

160,340 - greater than the population of Ft. Lauderdale, FL

(data is estimated for the U.S. in 2012)

More Information on Lung Cancer

• Lung Cancer Center
• Lung Cancer Health Information
• Lung Cancer Screening Trials
• Find a Doctor

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