CR3 News Magazine 2023 VOL 1: JANUARY -- RADON REIMAGINED | Page 27

Could My Cough Mean Lung Cancer?

Prognosis

Lung cancer in non-smokers is often diagnosed at a late stage, being first attributed to a respiratory infection or even allergies.

Still, some (but not all) studies suggest that overall survival is better in non-smokers.17 This difference is most apparent for those who are diagnosed at an early stage of the disease.

Female non-smokers, in general, also have a better prognosis than male non-smokers with lung cancer.

Research Focus

Researchers continue to work to figure out ways to detect lung cancer in non-smokers at an earlier stage. In the future, healthcare providers may be able to test for tumor markers, substances in the blood associated with cancer, to find these cancers in non-smokers at the earliest, most treatable stages.18

How Fast Does Lung Cancer Spread?

Prevention

Verywell / Luyi Wang

Checking your home for radon and avoiding secondhand smoke are the most important things you can do to lower your risk of lung cancer as a non-smoker.4

Certain dietary practices, as well as moderate amounts of exercise, appear to lower risk as well.19

For those who work in occupations that

have a high cancer risk, it's essential that you discuss precautions with your employer.

The use of personal protective equipment, especially respiratory protection, should be assured; air quality should be regularly assessed to ensure low levels of carcinogens; and regular medical examinations should be conducted.20

10 Tips for Lung Cancer Prevention

A Word From Verywell

Non-smokers who develop lung cancer may feel misunderstood. Due to the stigma of lung cancer, some people may assume that those with the disease "brought it upon themselves by smoking."

Such insensitive comments can make anyone feel alienated, whether they are smokers or non-smokers. In fact, research notes that lung cancer patients frequently comment that they feel less supported than people with other forms of cancer.21

Don't let this prevent you from sharing your struggles with others and seeking help when you need it. While such comments may be distressing to hear, know that, oftentimes, they come from a place of unawareness. Surround yourself with positive individuals who can provide you with the support you need.

By Lynne Eldridge, MD

Lynne Eldrige, MD, is a lung cancer physician, patient advocate, and award-winning author of "Avoiding Cancer One Day at a Time."

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