Lung cancer claims the lives of more Americans than any other cancers, according to the medical experts at the Mayo Clinic. Smokers are at the highest risk for developing lunch cancer, but people who have never smoked may also develop the disease, especially those with a family history of lung cancer. Some factors that put you more at risk the disease, such as your family's history or your gender (the Mayo Clinic also reports that female smokers are more likely to be affected than males who smoke), cannot be changed. However, there are several steps that can be taken in terms of lifestyle to reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Step 1
Quit smoking if you currently use tobacco products to reduce your risk of lung cancer. If you are a non-smoker, keep it up. Smoking cessation aids such as patches and nicotine gum may help curb cravings during the quitting process. Involve your doctor if products of this kind do not help you stop smoking.
Step 2
Avoid second-hand smoke as much as possible, as even inhaling smoke in this manner can increase your risk of lung cancer and other types of lung disease. Patronize restaurants and retail establishments that have a "no smoking" policy. If family members or co-workers smoke, ask them to smoke outside, or at least open a nearby window to ventilate common living and working spaces.
Step 3
Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into each meal. Fresh produce contains vitamins and antioxidants that may prevent several kinds of cancer. Avoid taking large doses of vitamin supplements, especially beta carotene. Mayo Clinic researchers say that mega-doses of beta carotene have shown to increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers.
Step 4
Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation, if you choose to enjoy this type of beverage. Women under 65 can lower their risk for lung cancer by indulging in no more than one drink daily. Men of the same age may drink up to two drinks each day without increasing their cancer risk. Senior citizens are encouraged to stick to the one-a-day rule. People who drink little or no alcohol have a decreased risk of lung cancer when compared to those who overindulge, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 5
Test your home for radon to reduce your risk. Many hardware stores carry test kits that measure the levels of the radioactive gas that exists in your house. Your local public health office may also offer testing kits or services. Radon levels of higher than 4 pCi/L may need to be treated in order to avoid potential health problems.
Step 6
Exercise at least a half hour three times a week to keep your lungs and heart healthy and to reduce your risk of lung cancer. Walking, biking, swimming and participating in sports are ideal activities.
