Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women in the United States. Smoking is believed to cause 80-90 percent of lung cancer cases, but there are several additional risk factors.

You can reduce your risk of developing lung cancer by following this guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Have your home tested for radon and take corrective actions if high levels are discovered.
  • Be aware of your exposure to radiation from medical imaging, especially images of the chest.
  • Follow health and safety guidelines when working with toxic materials such as asbestos.
  • Avoid diesel exhaust and other harmful air pollutants.

Different people experience different symptoms of lung cancer. Some symptoms may include shortness of breath; coughing that doesn’t go away; wheezing; coughing up blood; chest pain; and repeated respiratory infections.

If you have symptoms that concern you, see your doctor.

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