Why Don’t All Smokers get Lung Cancer?
Do you know someone who has never smoked a cigarette in his/her life and has lung cancer?
Or someone who is a chain smoker and without lung cancer?
Why Don’t All Smokers get Lung Cancer?
Does Smoking cause Lung Cancer?
It is known that smoking increases the risk for lung cancer, cancers other body parts, and other health complications. Cancers are caused by a combination of genetic and/or environmental factors. Smoking is a factor known to increase the risk for lung cancer for both men and women.
Why do some smokers never get lung cancer? Why do some non-smokers get lung cancer?
While smoking increases the risk of lung cancer it is not the only factor. There are lifelong smokers who never get lung cancer and individuals who have never smoked who get lung cancer. Genetics play an important role for cancer risks. Some individuals have a high risk of the lung cancer gene which is why they get cancer. That’s why some families have a large family history of cancer. Other lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise also play an important role.
Lung cancer is one the leading causes for cancer deaths.
Do e-cigarettes Cause Lung Cancer?
The data is not yet conclusive. However, many experts believe it may be harmful. In general, it would be advisable avoid until medical health risks are known.
Symptoms for Lung Cancer?
If you believe you have symptoms for lung cancer or are at risk for developing lung cancer please consult a doctor immediately. Symptoms include shortness of breath, weight loss, and coughing up blood. If you have a strong family history of cancer, watch out for symptoms and do check up on regular intervals.
Is there a Test to Predict Lung Cancer for a Smoker?
No. There is no test to predict lung cancer for a smoker. However, there are tests for hereditary cancer risks which will tell you if you have a genetic risk of getting lung cancer.
Does Secondary Smoke Cause Lung Cancer?
Yes. Secondary smoke or passive smoking, increases risk for lung cancer and other health issues. We would suggest you to avoid smoking areas whenever possible to decrease your chance to develop lung cancer.
Do you have Tests available for Lung Cancer Patients?
Yes. For newly diagnosed patients we recommend PositiveSelect Lung and for advanced cases we recommend PositiveSelect Ultimate.
All PositiveSelect tests are available on surgical biopsy and liquid biopsy testing (blood). These tests cover most types of cancer types and provide options for cancer treatment in India and worldwide.
What Treatments are Available in India for Lung Cancer?
There are many treatment options available in India including, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Cancer treatment recommendation depends on the type of lung cancer (for example non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer may have different treatments).
If you want to know more please read more on cancer treatment guidelines.
Do you have Testing for a Family with History of Cancer?
Absolutely. We recommend MyRisk. The test is performed in USA and tells you your risk of getting Breast, Ovarian, Colorectal, Endometrial, Melanoma, Pancreatic, Gastric, and Prostate cancer. The test always will suggest a risk management plan which is best fit for you.
Please consult your doctor prior to testing or treatment.
References:
- https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-some-smokers-get-lung/
- https://www.dana-farber.org/health-library/articles/cancer-mythbusters-smoking-and-lung-cancer/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_effects_of_tobacco
If you are recently diagnosed with lung cancer, want to know more about lung cancer, risk factors, cancer symptoms, cancer treatments, cancer tests or anything related to cancer, please write to info@positivebioscience.com
