Non-Smoking Lung Cancer Causes

Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Every year, smoking causes an estimated 400,000 deaths. Something many people do not know is that even if they smoke or have been exposed to secondhand smoke, tobacco smoking might not have caused their lung disease. A physician quite possibly could have attributed lung cancer to the wrong cause.

There are millions of industrial employees and laborers in the United States who are regularly exposed to toxins in substances such as asbestos. Miners, shipbuilders, pipe fitters, tile workers, welders, refinery workers, sanders, and other workers in high risk jobs can easily be exposed to toxins and environmental pollutants. The effects of these substances can surface years later – as many as 40 – as lung cancer or another dangerous lung disease, such as silicosis. This is because the offending toxins, such as asbestos fibers, can remain inactive and go undetected in the lungs for decades, leaving no cause for concern. Sadly, many victims have no idea anything is wrong until it is too late.

Some of the most dangerous non–smoking causes of lung cancer to which many workers have been exposed are described below.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral popularly used last century as insulation and in thousands of products. Today we know that asbestos exposure is extremely dangerous. When inhaled, asbestos fibers become embedded in the lungs, damaging cells, restricting the lungs' ability to function properly, and increasing one's chances of developing lung cancer, such as mesothelioma, or another dangerous lung disease, such as asbestosis. According to some experts, workers who have been exposed to asbestos are three to four times more likely to develop lung cancer than workers who have not been exposed. This risk is even greater for those exposed workers who have been smoking for a substantial period or who have been exposed to secondhand smoke. If you have developed an asbestos-related cancer or disease, it may be necessary to hire an asbestos attorney to help you protect your legal rights. An attorney can investigate your claim and assist you in obtaining compensation for your injuries.

Radon

A tasteless, odorless, and clear gas, radon is found naturally in soil, rocks, and the ground. Miners and other workers are at high risk for overexposure to this extremely toxic substance, which is known to cause lung cancer. In some instances, this substance is even found in people's homes: in fact, about one in every 15 homes has higher-than-recommended levels of radon. It's a good idea to obtain a test from your local hardware store and verify that the levels are at a very low, safe level.

Pollution

A number of studies have linked pollution, including exhaust fumes and fossil fuels, to lung cancer, although specific details have not been clearly defined. More research is being conducted to uncover conclusive evidence.

Lung Disease

Some researchers believe that victims of particular lung diseases – such as silicosis, mesothelioma, and tuberculosis – may be more susceptible to lung cancer because tumors typically develop in the scar tissue these illnesses leave behind.

Other Causes

Other lung disease and lung cancer causes include exposure to silica dust, fiberglass, benzene, paints and solvents, and secondhand smoke.

Contact a Lung Cancer Attorney

If you suspect that asbestos or other toxins may be the cause of your lung cancer, an experienced lawyer can help you protect your rights. Use LawyerShop’s directory to find an attorney near you.