Lung Cancer Risk Factors Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions This information has been reviewed and approved by James R. Jett, MD (October 2012). Want to use this on your website? Fill out the content usage request form and then copy this code: 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 Smoking cigarettes increases risk 20 times Radon, a radioactive gas found in soil Asbestos, a toxic chemical Environmental tobacco exposure Genetics in a first-degree relative Other lung diseases 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 You may use this infographic or our lung cancer poster (pdf) with permission by completing our content usage request form.