Lung cancer. Just hearing the words can evoke fear, confusion, and a sense of helplessness. Despite advances in treatment, it’s still one of the most aggressive and deadly cancers we face today. But what many people don’t realize is that understanding the risk factors and how to reduce them can make a real difference.As a practicing oncologist for over two decades, I have seen hundreds of patients newly diagnosed with lung cancer and, frankly, with a rapidly increasing incidence over time. Some are lifelong smokers; others have never even touched a cigarette. Most people ask me the same question: “How did this happen?”
What we inhale, what we eat, where we live, and how we care for our bodies directly influence our risk of lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. So, this discussion is about how your lifestyle is linked to your lung health because lung cancer is not just a smoker’s disease; it’s a lifestyle disease.THE SMOKING GUNThere’s no denying the biggest villain: tobacco. Smoking is responsible for nearly 9 in 10 lung cancers. Cigarettes, cigars, beedis, and even “light” or filtered versions deliver a cocktail of more than 70 cancer-causing chemicals straight to the lungs. The cumulative lung cancer risk among heavy smokers is as high as 30%, compared to a lifetime risk of less than 1% in never-smokers. The risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the duration of smoking.But here is what more people need to hear:Quitting works! Lung cancer risk reduction is evident within 5 years of quitting, and the decline continues with time. Nicotine is addictive, but lung cancer is unforgiving.If you smoke, the best time to quit was yesterday. The next best time is now.THE HIDDEN THREAT: SECONDHAND SMOKENon-smokers are not off the hook. Secondhand smoke from a spouse, a colleague, or even a neighbor can increase your lung cancer risk. It is associated with a 24% increased risk among individuals who have never smoked. Children exposed to smoke at home are especially vulnerable. By smoking, you are putting your loved ones at risk. And by not speaking up against smoking in public places, the health of non-smokers is being compromised.WHAT WE BREATHE MATTERSIn city like ours, air pollution is an invisible killers. Microscopic pollutants from the vehicle exhaust, factories and burning waste enter our lungs with every breath, triggering inflammation and cell damage. Long-term exposure increases the risk of both lung cancer and chronic lung disease. As responsible citizens, using public transport, supporting odd-even vehicle policies, and adopting solar power can help improve air quality.FOOD FOR LUNGSWe often do not link diet to lung health, but we should.A nutrient-rich diet, especially one packed with fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants, helps combat cellular damage and supports lung tissue repair. On the flip side, heavy alcohol use and poor nutrition may weaken your body’s natural defences. MOVEMENT IS MEDICINERegular physical activity strengthens not just your muscles and bones, but also your lungs. It reduces inflammation, improves immune function, and lowers your overall cancer risk. Just 45 minutes of brisk cardio a day can significantly reduce your risk.TAKE YOUR LUNGS SERIOUSLYWe cannot control everything. But we can control more than we think. You have the power to choose your lifestyle, and one healthy choice can save you from this serious disease. Lung cancer does not develop overnight. It builds up over years of exposure and damage to your lungs.STOP THAT CULPRIT TODAYTake your lungs seriously. They are not just organs, they are your life-giving machines. As a physician, I have seen what happens when people ignore early warnings. But I have also seen the power of prevention.Prevention is not just medicine — it is freedom.Make the shift today.Every breath is a reminder of life.Do not take it for granted.Protect your lungs.Not just for yourself, but for everyone who breathes beside you.(Dr Sachin Almel, Section Head, Medical Oncology, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Mahim)