What causes lung cancer?

The top lung cancer risks in individuals who do not smoke are:

Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. Some other causes include workplace chemicals, Asbestos exposure, second hand smoke, air pollution, and genetic susceptibility. CLICK HERE to learn more about testing your home for radon and where to obtain a testing kit in your area.

Am I at risk for radon exposure in the area where I live?

Although Kentucky has relatively high levels of radon across the state, every house, every neighborhood, every county, will have varying levels. If you want to know what radon levels are like in your area, as well as the risk exposure poses for your children CLICK HERE.

How common is lung cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the second most common cancer, but by far the leading cause of cancer death among men and women. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than colon, breast, and prostate combined. It is estimated for 2023 that about 238,340 new cases and about 127,070 deaths will occur in the United States from this disease.

Who can get lung cancer?

Lung cancer does not occur solely because of tobacco use. The American Cancer Society states as many as 20% of lung cancer patients who have never smoked develop lung cancer and and even larger percentage quit smoking long before they are diagnosed. They do not qualify for early detection screening so awareness that #anyonewithlungs can be diagnosed with lung cancer will help erase the stigma so we can work to improve the deadly statistics of this disease for everyone, regardless of smoking history...because noone deserves cancer! Blame & shame should not accompany any cancer or disease, reglardless of any causes. We must practice compassion and encourage conversatiosn that impact and improve funding so we can focus on treatment & a cure for this deadliest of all cancers, lung cancer.

What is a genetic mutation in NSCLC?

A Genetic Mutation is a permanent change in your DNA. It can affect how a cell works and cause it to grow and divide and become lung cancer. Most people who have never smoked have driver mutations that can cause these mistakes in their DNA causing tumor growth. It is important to see your doctor right away if you are experiencing any symptoms listed below that are not going away. If you are not satified with your care and feel you need future medical attention, getting a second opinion is never a bad idea.

If you have already been diagnosed with a lung cancer mutation, be sure and connect with other survivors with your same genetic mutation on social media for survivor connection and valuable information about your mutation.

EGFR Resisters

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1992981107603006

ALK Positive

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ALKPositive

RET Positive 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/retpositive

ROS1ders

https://www.facebook.com/TheROS1ders

KRAS Kickers

https://www.facebook.com/groups/kraskickers

What are some of the symptoms?

In many cases, there are no symptoms at all until the disease is in later stages. Early detection is the best chance for survival. However, here is a list of just a few early symptoms that may be present:

• A dry cough that doesn't go away
• Hoarseness
• Constant chest pain with deep breaths
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Frequent lung infections
• Bloody or red tinged spit or phlegm