Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious forms of cancer, affecting millions of people worldwide.
It develops when abnormal cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can spread to other parts of the body. While smoking is the leading cause, many other factors contribute to its development.
Understanding what causes lung cancer, how it forms, and how to test for it is an important step toward prevention and early detection.
What Is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer begins when cells in the lungs mutate and start dividing without control.
Instead of functioning normally, these cells accumulate and form tumors that interfere with healthy lung tissue.
There are two main types of lung cancer:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): The most common type, accounting for about 85 percent of cases. It includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
- Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): A more aggressive form that spreads quickly, often linked to heavy smoking.
Both types can cause breathing difficulties, chest pain, and other symptoms as tumors grow and reduce the lungs’ ability to absorb oxygen.
What Causes Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer typically develops when cells in the lungs are damaged by harmful substances that alter their DNA. Over time, repeated exposure leads to mutations that cause uncontrolled cell growth.
Major Causes and Risk Factors
- Cigarette smoking: The leading cause of lung cancer. Smoking damages lung tissue and exposes the body to thousands of carcinogenic chemicals.
- Secondhand smoke: Long-term exposure to smoke from others increases risk even for non-smokers.
- Radon gas: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes, especially in basements or poorly ventilated spaces.
- Air pollution: Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter and industrial pollutants increases the likelihood of lung damage.
- Occupational exposure: Working around asbestos, diesel exhaust, or chemical fumes can significantly raise risk.
- Family history: Genetics can play a role in susceptibility to cancer-causing substances.
- Previous lung disease: Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis increase vulnerability.
Although smoking remains the most common cause, about 10 to 20 percent of people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked, highlighting the importance of regular screening for at-risk individuals.
Common Symptoms
Early-stage lung cancer often causes no symptoms, which makes screening vital for detection. As the disease progresses, common symptoms may include:
- Persistent cough that worsens over time
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or hoarseness
- Coughing up blood
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
If symptoms persist or worsen, medical evaluation should be done immediately.
How to Get Tested for Lung Cancer
Screening for lung cancer helps detect it early, when treatment is most effective.
People at higher risk, especially long-term smokers, benefit the most from routine screening.
Common Screening and Diagnostic Tests
- Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT): The preferred screening test. It uses low levels of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs and identify small nodules or abnormalities.
- Chest X-ray: May reveal tumors but is less sensitive than CT scans for early detection.
- Sputum cytology: Examines mucus from the lungs under a microscope to detect cancerous cells.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the lung for microscopic examination if abnormalities are found.
- Molecular testing: Identifies genetic mutations in cancer cells to guide personalized treatment options.
At Atlas Health Screening, our advanced imaging and respiratory screening programs help detect lung abnormalities early, giving patients the best chance for timely intervention.
Take Steps to Protect Your Lung Health
While not all causes of lung cancer can be prevented, many are within your control.
Quitting smoking, testing your home for radon, wearing protective gear in high-risk workplaces, and maintaining regular health screenings can dramatically reduce risk.
Schedule a lung health screening near you today and take the first step toward prevention and peace of mind.