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Lung Cancer - What Increases Your Risk

Risk factors for lung cancer include:

  • Tobacco use. Smoking and chewing tobacco are related to developing lung cancer, as well as to cancer of the mouth and throat. Over 85% of lung cancers are related to smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. More than half of the people who are newly diagnosed with lung cancer are former smokers. The risk of developing lung cancer increases:
    • The longer you smoke.
    • The more cigarettes you smoke each day.
  • Marijuana use. Smoking one marijuana cigarette, or a joint, may affect the lungs as much as smoking a pack of cigarettes.6
  • Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, asbestos, radioactive dust, or radon.
  • Radiation exposure from occupational, medical, or environmental sources.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 26, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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