Top Lung Cancer Risk Factors You Should Know

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, claiming more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. Tens of thousands of new cases are diagnosed annually—and many of them are preventable.

Understanding the risk factors for lung cancer can help you take proactive steps toward protecting your health. The earlier lung cancer is diagnosed, the more effective treatment can be.

1. Smoking

Cigarette smoking remains the number one cause of lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, about 80% of lung cancer deaths are linked to smoking. But it's not just cigarettes—using e-cigarettes, vaping devices, cigars, marijuana, or illicit drugs also raises your risk.

There’s no such thing as a “safe” cigarette. Light, menthol, or filtered varieties still carry significant risk. The more frequently and longer you smoke, the greater your chances of developing lung cancer.

Secondhand smoke also puts nonsmokers at risk. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most powerful steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk—and to protect those around you. Your primary care provider can connect you with tools and resources to help you quit for good.

2. Family History of Cancer

If lung cancer or other cancers run in your family—especially in first-degree relatives like parents or siblings—you may be at higher risk. This could be due to inherited genetic mutations or shared environmental exposures.

For example, if you grew up in a household with heavy smokers or high radon levels, that may contribute more to your risk than genetics alone. It’s important to share your family history with your doctor so they can recommend personalized monitoring and screenings.

3. Chemical Exposure

Long-term exposure to certain substances can increase your lung cancer risk, especially if you’re also a smoker. Key chemical risk factors include:

• Radon: A radioactive gas that naturally occurs in soil and can enter homes through cracks in foundations.
• Asbestos: Often found in construction, shipbuilding, or older insulation materials.
• Diesel exhaust: Common in heavy machinery environments and transportation industries.
• Arsenic: Can contaminate drinking water and some foods.
• Coal byproducts: Often affect workers in mining and fossil fuel industries.
• Beta carotene supplements: High doses in smokers may increase lung cancer risk, according to research.

If you’ve worked in environments where these exposures are possible, let your provider know. Lung screenings may be recommended.

What to Do If You're at Risk

If any of the above factors apply to you, schedule an evaluation with your healthcare provider. Early symptoms of lung cancer may include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood.

At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, we offer advanced imaging and cancer screening tools to catch lung cancer in its earliest stages—when it’s most treatable. Our team of specialists serves the entire Bay Area with personalized, evidence-based care.

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