1. Chronic Irritation is Associated with Lung Cancer
One of the ways that cancer is initiated is via DNA damage following chronic irritation. Agents well known to irritate the lungs and lead to lung cancer over time include smoke and the irritating tars, resins, and carcinogens it contains, mechanical irritants, and chemical fumes that repeatedly inhaled.
2. Second-Hand Smoke is a Problem
You don't even have to be the one smoking to get lung cancer. Second-hand smoke carries its own risk for lung cancer. Ask smoking friends and family members to step outside. Don't patronize restaurants or establishments that permit smoking. Long-term exposure to open fires and wood stove smoke are other types of smoke that may irritate the lungs. Insure adequate ventilation if you use a wood stove to heat your home.
3. Asbestos and Mechanical Irritants Can Cause Lung Cancer
Asbestos and fiberglass exposure can also be inhaled and lodge in lung tissue, acting as a long term irritant that is associated with lung cancer. You should always wear a good-quality air mask--one with air filters, not just the simple paper or fabric shield--if you deal with attic insulation or an other sources of these hazardous materials.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies Contribute to Lung Cancer
Low levels of anti-oxidant vitamins are associated with increased risk of all sorts of cancer, including lung cancer. Exposure to cigarette smoke causes cells to expend their anti-oxidant nutrients attempting to protect themselves. When combined with dietary deficiencies, cells may become depleted of their nutrients. Irritation and inflammation worsen in such circumstances and the risk of cancer increases.
5. Reducing the Risk of Lung Cancer with Nutrition
Keep your intake of anti-oxidant vitamins high to help protect your tissues from exposure to chemical irritants and smoke. Beta carotene, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium are among the important nutrients with anti-oxidant action. You can supplement these nutrients or aim to eat plentiful fresh fruits and veggies to help keep these important nutrients plentiful in your lungs.
