You can get lung cancer even if you don’t smoke. Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide and is increasingly being found among non-smoking women, especially in Asia. Let’s explore why people who don’t smoke can still get lung cancer, what the risk factors are, and what are the key warning signs of lung cancer in women.
You can get lung cancer even without smoking – risk factors you may overlook
Interesting statistics: Studies from Japan and South Korea have found that non-smoking women in these countries are seeing a significant increase in a type of lung cancer commonly found in non-smokers. These studies also discovered frequent mutations in the EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) gene among this group, a key factor linked to lung cancer in Asian women who don’t smoke.
In the past, we used to think that 80–90 out of 100 lung cancer cases occurred in smokers. But now, in some regions, non-smokers make up 20–30% or more of lung cancer patients, especially women.
5 Major Risk Factors for Lung Cancer in Non-Smoking Women
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EGFR Gene Mutation: A trigger for lung cancer in Asian women
One major reason why Asian women can develop lung cancer despite not smoking is due to mutations in the EGFR gene.
The EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) gene normally regulates cell growth and division. However, when it mutates or becomes abnormal, it can cause lung cells to divide uncontrollably, leading to cancer.
Numerous studies confirm that EGFR mutations are particularly common in cases of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) — the most common type of lung cancer — especially among Asian women who have never smoked.
This is a key reason that helps explain why many Asian women develop lung cancer despite having no history of smoking.
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PM2.5: The invisible danger
Aside from genes, another major risk factor that must not be overlooked is PM2.5 — tiny airborne particles that are invisible yet have a significant impact on our lungs.
How does PM2.5 damage lung cells?
Numerous statistics and medical studies show a clear link between increased levels of PM2.5 in the air and a higher risk of developing lung cancer, especially among non-smokers. This means that the more we are exposed to environments with high PM2.5 levels, the greater the risk our lungs will be harmed.
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Other environmental toxins and pollutants: Silent threats to the lungs
In addition to genes and PM2.5, there are many other toxins and pollutants that we need to be cautious about, as they also increase the risk of lung cancer — even if you don’t smoke.
- Secondhand smoke: A mother may not smoke herself, but if she is regularly around someone who does, inhaling secondhand smoke can be just as harmful. Cigarette smoke contains many carcinogens that directly enter the lungs.
- Workplace chemicals: Certain occupations that involve regular exposure to hazardous chemicals carry a high risk of lung cancer, such as those in construction or factories dealing with asbestos, chromium, or nickel. Inhalation of these substances can damage lung cells and increase the chances of genetic mutations.
- Other air pollutants: It’s not just PM2.5 — there are other invisible air pollutants such as toxic gases released from factories or vehicle exhaust. These pollutants are filled with harmful chemicals that can affect the respiratory system and accumulate in the lungs, raising the risk of cancer over time.
- Family history and genetics: Genetics or family history also plays a role. Even if a woman has never smoked, if there are direct relatives — like a parent or sibling — who have had lung cancer, her risk increases. This may be due to certain inherited genes that raise the likelihood of developing the disease.
- Other risk factors for lung cancer in women: If you already have a chronic lung condition such as emphysema or had tuberculosis that left scarring in the lungs, those damaged areas could become starting points for cancer cells to develop in the future. Several medical studies have shown this correlation.
Some infections — although still under early research — have also been linked to lung cancer. For example, HPV (the same virus associated with cervical cancer) has been found in a few studies to have a possible connection to lung cancer, though more research is needed.
10 Warning Signs of Lung Cancer in Women …Don’t Overlook Them!
It’s important for us women to pay close attention to the warning signs of lung cancer. These symptoms are often subtle or resemble common, everyday issues — which is why they’re easy to dismiss. Key signs to watch out for include:
Respiratory-related symptoms:
- Chronic cough: A persistent cough that doesn’t go away. It could be a dry cough or one with phlegm and even a small amount of blood — do not ignore it.
- Shortness of breath or wheezing: Feeling easily tired, unable to take a full breath, or hearing a wheezing sound when breathing.
- Chest pain: Pain in the chest, especially when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing.
- Hoarseness or voice changes: Noticeable hoarseness or changes in your voice without a known cause.
General symptoms that may indicate cancer spread:
- Unexplained weight loss: Rapid weight loss without dieting or changes in eating habits.
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness: Constant exhaustion even after sufficient rest.
- Loss of appetite: A noticeable drop in appetite or interest in food.
- Bone pain: Pain in the bones may suggest the cancer has spread to the skeletal system.
- Headaches, seizures, or weakness on one side: These may occur if the cancer has spread to the brain.
- Swelling of the face, neck, or arms: If the tumor grows large enough to press on major blood vessels, it may cause swelling in these areas.
When should you see a doctor?
If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, or notice new unusual symptoms — even if they seem mild — consult your doctor right away. Don’t wait until it worsens. Detecting lung cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Prevention and Self-Care… to Reduce the Risk of Lung Cancer
Reducing the Risk
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and environmental toxins.
- Wear an N95 mask and avoid outdoor activities when PM2.5 levels are high.
- Take care of your overall health by eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest.
Lung Cancer Screening
- A Low-dose CT scan (LDCT) is recommended for people at high risk — even if they don’t smoke — such as those with a family history or other risk factors.
- Early screening significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Lung Cancer: Know Early, Prevent Early, Treat in Time
Paying attention to bodily changes and undergoing screening when at risk can help prevent or detect lung cancer early, which greatly increases the likelihood of a full recovery. Don’t forget to take good care of your health — and never ignore warning signs from your body.
Originally published on theAsianparent Thailand
