Date Published: 11/30/2019 [Source]
Among the many observances that take place in November, lung cancer awareness is one that certainly should not be overlooked. The American Lung Association states that approximately 415,000 Americans are currently living with lung cancer.
Although the majority of lung cancers are caused by smoking tobacco, there are also lung cancers that occur in non-smokers as well. Radon, a natural occurring radioactive gas that results from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in this country, and is the leading cause among non-smokers.
Radon is found in little quantities outside. However, radon can be more concentrated indoors which can increase a person's risk of lung cancer. Other causes of lung cancer can include: asbestos exposure, air pollution, radiation therapy to the lungs, and personal or family history of lung cancer.