Lung cancer continues to be a major health challenge both in the United States and globally, with widespread misconceptions surrounding the disease. In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 218,520 new cases of lung cancer in the U.S. and 142,080 deaths. Worldwide, lung cancer is the second most common cancer after breast cancer, with 2.21 million cases in 2020, resulting in 1.8 million deaths. To address prevailing myths, Dr. Fred R. Hirsch, executive director of the Center of Excellence for Thoracic Oncology at Mount Sinai’s Tisch Cancer Institute, offers valuable insights.
Myth 1: Only Smokers Get Lung Cancer
Dr. Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD, clarifies this misconception, noting that “around 10–20% of people with lung cancer in the U.S. have never smoked or have smoked fewer than 100 cigarettes in their lives.” Secondhand smoke is responsible for approximately 7,300 lung cancer deaths annually among nonsmokers, and radon exposure accounts for an additional 2,900 deaths.
Myth 2: There Is No Way to Reduce the Risk
Contrary to belief, there are several ways to lower lung cancer risk. Dr. Hirsch emphasizes “smoking prevention and smoking cessation” as the primary strategies. Limiting exposure to secondhand smoke and conducting radon level checks at home are also crucial. For high-risk groups, such as those over 50 with a long history of smoking, lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan can reduce mortality by over 20%.
Myth 3: Only Older Adults Develop Lung Cancer
While more than half of those diagnosed with lung cancer are over 65, Dr. Hirsch notes an increase in cases among younger individuals, particularly women under 50.
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Myth 4: Pollution Is Worse than Smoking
Pollution, especially from traffic, does increase lung cancer risk, but comparing it directly with smoking is complex. Dr. Hirsch explains that while living in polluted cities is a risk factor, it is unclear if it is worse than tobacco use. The combination of both may pose a greater threat.
Myth 5: There’s No Point in Quitting Smoking After Years
Dr. Hirsch dispels this myth, stressing that “smoking cessation significantly reduces lung cancer risk” and enhances overall health, potentially adding years to one’s life.
Myth 6: Cannabis Does Not Increase Lung Cancer Risk
More research is needed to confirm whether cannabis is a risk factor for lung cancer. Dr. Hirsch points out the difficulty in separating cannabis effects from tobacco, as many cannabis users also smoke cigarettes.
Myth 7: Lung Cancer Surgery Causes the Cancer to Spread
Lung cancer surgery does not cause the disease to spread. Dr. Hirsch advises early surgery, which can be curative, and notes that treatments like chemotherapy or immunotherapy before surgery can improve outcomes.
Myth 8: Talcum Powder Increases Lung Cancer Risk
According to Dr. Hirsch, there is no evidence linking talcum powder to lung cancer. The myth may stem from mining studies where other factors like radon were present.
Myth 9: Lung Cancer Is Always Symptomatic
Lung cancer can be asymptomatic or present with mild respiratory symptoms, underscoring the importance of screening for early detection, particularly in high-risk groups.
Myth 10: Lung Cancer Is Always Terminal
Early-detected lung cancer has a cure rate of over 60%. Advances in treatment, especially for cancers with specific genetic mutations, have significantly improved long-term survival prospects.
Myth 11: Antioxidant Supplements Protect Against Lung Cancer
While antioxidants are vital for cellular health, clinical evidence of their protective effect against lung cancer is inconclusive. More research, especially on dosage and in specific populations, is necessary.
Myth 12: Smoking Is the Only Risk Factor
In addition to smoking, factors such as family history, air pollution, radon, asbestos exposure, prior chest radiation, and chronic lung disease contribute to lung cancer risk.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the realities of lung cancer risk and prevention is crucial for making informed health decisions.
- Non-smokers can develop lung cancer, emphasizing the need for awareness about other risk factors.
- Quitting smoking reduces lung cancer risk and improves overall health, regardless of how long one has smoked.
- Screening and early detection significantly improve survival rates, highlighting the importance of regular health checks for high-risk individuals.
- Lifestyle factors, including exposure to secondhand smoke and pollutants, play a significant role in lung cancer risk.
- The complexity of lung cancer risk factors means staying informed and proactive about health is essential for prevention and early intervention.
