What causes lung cancer?
Aside from smoking being the #1 cause, radon exposure ranks #2 and is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. Some other causes include workplace chemicals, Asbestos exposure, second hand smoke and genetic susceptibility. CLICK HERE to learn more about testing your home for radon and where to obtain a testing kit in your area.
What are the radon levels where I live?
Although Kentucky has relatively high levels of radon across the state, every house, every neighborhood, every county, will have varying levels. If you want to know what radon levels are like in your area CLICK HERE.
How common is lung cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the second most common cancer, but by far the leading cause of cancer death among men and women. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than colon, breast, and prostate combined. It is estimated for 2021 that about 235,760 new cases and about 131,880 deaths will occur in the United States from this disease.
Who can get lung cancer?
It is not just a smoker's cancer. The American Cancer Society states as many as 20% of lung cancer patients have never smoked or used any tobacco products. Many others quit smoking long before they are diagnosed. Awareness that anyone can get lung cancer, knowledge that it does not discriminate, and understanding that no one deserves it, will help erase the stigma so we can work to reduce the deadly statistics of this disease.
What are some of the symptoms?
In many cases, there are no symptoms at all until the disease is in it's later stages. Early detection is the best chance for survival. However, here is a list of just a few early symptoms that may be present:
- A dry cough that doesn't go away
- Hoarseness
- Constant chest pain with deep breaths
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Frequent lung infections
- Bloody or red tinged spit or phlegm