Other Lung Cancer Risk Factors

Author: Renee Botello, MSc, Navigator, Treatment and Trials, GO2 for Lung Cancer

Over the years, efforts to prevent lung cancer and teach the public about its link to smoking have resulted in negative and sometimes false viewpoints about the disease. Lung cancer became seen as a disease diagnosed in people who currently use tobacco or have used it in the past. But the fact is, many factors increase the risk of lung cancer other than tobacco use. Lung cancer is very complex, and we still have a lot to learn about it. However, we do know that anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.

What are the other factors that can increase the risk of lung cancer? 

Many risk factors can lead someone to be diagnosed with lung cancer. As a growing number of people without a smoking tobacco history are being diagnosed with lung cancer, it is important to better understand the risks and predispositions for developing lung cancer besides smoking tobacco. We separate other lung cancer risk factors into three categories: environmental, exposure, and genetic. 

Exposure 

Secondhand smoke

Breathing secondhand smoke, or smoke from other people’s tobacco use is a risk factor for lung cancer among people who do not smoke. Regular exposure to secondhand smoke can increase lung cancer risk by 20-30% compared to those not exposed. Learn more.

Asbestos

Although in most cases this is deemed as an occupational exposure, asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer and the development of other types of cancer, including mesothelioma – a cancer that typically starts in the lining of organs, including the lungs, abdomen, heart, and chest. Learn more.  

Military service

Exposure attributed to military service has also resulted in an increased risk for lung cancer. Veterans exposed to defoliants and herbicides such as Agent Orange, as well as asbestos exposure on board ships, shipyards, or submarines are at higher risk for lung cancer. Those exposed to fuel exhaust, as well as smoke from oil wells, kerosene cookers, and heaters are at increased risk for lung cancer. Read more about GO2’s efforts to serve our nation’s veterans and military personnel. 

Environmental 

Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in people without a history of tobacco smoking, and its exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. Learn more.  

Air pollution

Environmental exposure, including air pollution from vehicles and diesel exhaust, may increase the risk for lung cancer. There is also evidence that exposure to industrial chemicals in certain industries and occupations increases the risk for lung cancer. This risk concern comes from prolonged and repeated exposure to carcinogens such as heavy metals, arsenic, beryllium, and other occupational carcinogens.  

Beta-carotene supplements

A study researching if the use of beta-carotene supplements would decrease lung cancer risk in high-risk individuals (those who were currently smoking tobacco and asbestos-exposed workers) found that the supplements had the opposite effect. The study saw that those high-risk individuals taking large amounts of beta-carotene supplements for long periods of time had an increased number of lung cancer diagnoses. Research continues to investigate the effect of beta-carotene and other supplements on lung health, but studies have not been able to prove that supplements have the same effect as eating fruits and vegetables. That said, eating foods rich in beta-carotene (which is found in yellow, orange, and leafy fruits and vegetables) may lower the risk of some diseases. If thinking about any dietary supplements or diets, please consult your physician. 

Genetics or family history 

Genetic mutation or disposition

One of the strongest predictors for lung cancer risk can be a genetic mutation or disposition driving cancer development. Studies have shown that adults with any of the criteria below are at increased risk for lung cancer: 

• A fully related parent or sibling with lung cancer
• Family members who were diagnosed with lung cancer before age the age of 50
• Multiple relatives diagnosed with lung cancer

As observed in other cancers, such as breast, ovarian, and colon, genetics is still a considerable risk for the disease.  

New research on inherited lung cancer risk

In collaboration with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Dana-Farber) and Addario Lung Cancer Medical Institute (ALCMI), GO2’s landmark research study, INHERIT, aims to better understand the genetic risk for developing lung cancer to improve screening, prevention, and treatment. Learn more about the INHERIT study, including eligibility. For questions about the study, please reach out to our HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436 or email us at support@go2.org.