Can non-smokers get lung cancer? Expert tips to identify symptoms of lung cancer, prevent risks

Non- smokers are also at a high risk of having lung cancer. (Image: Canva)

Smoking is frequently linked to lung cancer and remains the primary cause of this illness. However, it's important to remember that lung cancer can also strike non-smokers. In people who have never smoked, lung cancer can be caused by various factors, including exposure to radon, second hand smoke, air pollution, and occupational risks such as asbestos and diesel exhaust. Furthermore, some cases of lung cancer occur in individuals with no known risk factors; these cases may be caused by unknown factors or sporadic genetic abnormalities.

Adopting safety precautions and being aware of the risks non-smokers encounter can help lower the incidence of lung cancer in this demographic, says Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, head of critical care and pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon. Several environmental and genetic factors, including smoke, have been linked to lung cancer in non-smokers. According to Dr Grover, these are some of the factors that can influence  the chances of having lung cancer:

Radon exposure: Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally and can build up in homes and buildings, increasing the risk of lung cancer.

Second hand smoke: Lung cancer can result from breathing in smoke from the cigarettes of others.

Air pollution: Over time, lung tissue can be harmed by fine particulate matter and other air pollutants.

Workplace exposures: Workers exposed to industrial chemicals, diesel exhaust, asbestos, and other substances may develop lung cancer.

Lung cancer in non-smokers can sometimes be caused by inherited gene alterations (germline mutations) or by spontaneous genetic mutations that increase a person's susceptibility to the disease. The symptoms of lung cancer, similar in both smokers and non-smokers, include:

Continuous coughing: A persistent cough that worsens over time.

Blood in sputum: The discharge of mucus from the lungs that contains blood.

Chest pains: A chronic ache in the chest region.

Breathing difficulties: Wheezing or shortness of breath.

Unexplained weight loss: Weight loss that occurs spontaneously.

Non-smokers may be more likely to attribute these symptoms to other conditions, potentially delaying diagnosis until the disease is at a more advanced stage.Treatment regimens for non-smokers with lung cancer can be tailored based on the distinct genetic alterations present in their tumours compared to smokers. Both smokers and non-smokers often receive the same lung cancer treatment, which may include:

Surgery: The malignant portion of the lung is removed.

Immunotherapy: Enhancing the immune system's capacity to combat cancer.

Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells.

Radiation therapy: Targeting and eliminating cancer cells using high-energy radiation.

Targeted therapy: Medications designed to target specific genetic alterations in cancerous cells.

Non-smokers should adopt these following safety measures to reduce their risk of lung cancer:

Avoid secondhand smoke: Stay away from areas where people smoke.

Reduce exposure to air pollution: Avoid high-pollution areas and use air filters at home.

Minimise occupational hazards: Follow safety precautions to reduce exposure to chemicals, diesel exhaust, and asbestos.

Test for radon: Ensure your home is tested for radon and take remedial action if necessary.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can improve overall health and lower cancer risk.

Monitor family history: Inform your doctor of any family history of lung cancer to determine appropriate screening measures.