If you think of smoking when someone mentions lung cancer you wouldn’t be wrong – but while that is the leading cause, the Lung Cancer Research Foundation reports that about 20% of lung cancer deaths in this country occur in people who have never smoked. Here are some other important details about lung cancer and how you can help your lungs function at their best.

Causes of Lung Cancer

1. Smoking. The leading cause of lung cancer is tobacco smoke. Cigarettes contain carcinogens, or substances that can cause cancer. The longer and more frequently a person smokes, the higher their risk.
2. Radon Exposure. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in soil and rocks. It can seep into homes and buildings through cracks, and long-term exposure can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading risk factor for lung cancer, just behind smoking. You can view the EPA Map of Radon Zones to assess the risk in your area.
3. Secondhand Smoke. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Non-smokers living with smokers have a 20-30% higher risk than those in smoke-free environments.
4. Air Pollution. Prolonged exposure to air pollution has been linked to lung cancer.
5. Genetics. While fairly uncommon, some people may inherit an increased risk of developing lung cancer, but not all people who inherit such gene mutations will develop cancer. Still, you should tell your doctor if there is a history of lung cancer in your family.

Prevention Strategies

While not all risk factors for lung cancer can be controlled, there are several steps people can take to reduce their risk – with quitting smoking being the number one measure to healthier lungs. Other strategies include:

1. Avoid Secondhand Smoke. If possible, avoid environments where smoking occurs. This can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke.
2. Test for Radon. Homeowners, especially those living in high-radon areas, should have their homes tested for radon. If levels are high, contact a qualified professional to install a radon reduction system.
3. Reduce Exposure to Pollutants. Limit exposure to air pollution and harmful chemicals whenever possible.
4. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can strengthen the immune system, helping to reduce cancer risks overall.

BREATHE: Early Signs and Symptoms

Here’s an easy way for you to remember common symptoms of lung cancer: BREATHE.

• Blood when you cough or spit.
• Recurring respiratory infections.
• Enduring cough that is new or different.
• Ache or pain in chest, shoulder, or back.
• Trouble breathing.
• Hoarseness or wheezing.
• Exhaustion, weakness, or loss of appetite.

Additional red flags include unexplained weight loss, any swelling in the neck and face areas, and difficulty swallowing. Any one of these signs alone is a reason to see your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Your Next Course of Action

Early detection of lung cancer is critical in improving outcomes. Regular screenings, especially for high-risk individuals like long-term smokers, can help catch lung cancer in its early stages when treatment is more likely to be successful. Ongoing research has led to advances in both lung cancer screenings and treatments. Take advantage of your Transocean benefits to get annual health checkups and talk to your doctor about your risks for developing lung cancer and whether you should get screened.