Ballywho News

Lung cancer isn’t always preventable, but patients can take steps to significantly reduce their risk for the disease. Follow these five steps to improve your lung health and decrease your risk for lung cancer.

1. Don’t smoke. The CDC estimates that about 90% of male patients and 80% of female patients who die of lung cancer are smokers. But it’s never too late to quit; smokers who ditch their cigarettes and other tobacco products have improved lung health within days of quitting. Meanwhile their risk for lung cancer continues to drop as they stay smoke free.
2. Keep away from secondhand smoke. Even occasional exposure to tobacco smoke can increase risk for lung cancer. If other family members smoke, insist that they head outside to light up. Avoid bars and restaurants that allow smoking indoors, even if they have a designated “non-smoking” section. In open areas, try not to stand close to people who are smoking.
3. Reduce your risk for other lung diseases. Certain lung diseases, such as tuberculosis (TB), can raise your risk for lung cancer. These conditions cause scar tissue to form on the lungs, creating areas that are more prone to cancer. Take measures to protect yourself. If you work in health care or other industries where you may be exposed to TB, get vaccinated. Work to minimize exposure to other communicable diseases and conditions that can affect your lungs.
4. Test your home for radon and asbestos. Both substances drastically increase your family’s risk for lung cancer. Radon is an odorless gas that can get trapped in buildings, while asbestos is a powdery substance that used to be common in insulation and other home building materials. It’s simple and easy to test for radon and asbestos. Removing them is truly an investment in your family’s safety.
5. Eat those fruits and vegetables. Although it may seem that chomping on fruits and veggies has little to do with your lungs, studies have consistently shown that fruits and vegetables help prevent a wide variety of diseases and conditions—including lung cancer. Consult your doctor or a nutritionist to find out how many servings you need per day.

If you have questions about lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, or treatment, please contact us at Largo Medical Center. Visit us online or call Consult-a-Nurse® at 1-877-442-2362 for answers to your questions and free physician referrals.