Even though lung cancer is commonly associated with smoking, a surprising 15-20% of newly diagnosed cases occur in people who have never smoked, many of whom are in their 40s or 50s.
Doctors believe that the increase in non-smoking lung cancer cases is likely due to long-term, high exposure to radon gas. This gas is colorless and odorless and is emitted from the ground.
There is a breakdown of radioactive material that occurs naturally underground and can seep through building foundations. This gas can linger and build up in people’s homes and lungs without them knowing unless they test for it.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends regular radon testing and taking measures to reduce exposure levels in homes. However, a recent consumer survey conducted on behalf of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center — Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC — James) found that a surprising 75% of Americans have not tested their homes for radon, and ov rnrnHalf (55%) of people are not worried about being exposed to radon in their homes, community, or schools. “Anyone with lungs can develop lung cancer, and as a community we should be aware and concerned about radon exposure because it’s thought to be one of the leading causes of lung cancer in never-smokers — and there is something we can do reduce our risk,” said David Carbone, MD, PhD, a thoracic medical oncologist and director of the OSUCCC — James Thoracic Oncology Center. “There are relatively simple tests to measure radon in the home and actions to reduce radon exposure.” This includes installing outside the home a radon remediation system.
The system utilizes a suction method to remove air from the basement, where radon gas tends to accumulate. It is also important to increase air flow by opening windows, using fans or vents in the home, and sealing any cracks in the floors, walls, and foundation.
Rise in Lung Cancer Among Young Non-Smokers
Cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer. Despite this, there is a continued increase in lung cancer rates among non-smokers. The symptoms of the disease remain the same whether the person has smoked or not, including feelings of fatigue, frequent coughing, chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood.The symptoms of lung cancer may be similar to those of other illnesses, but it is important to seek medical attention if you have persistent symptoms that do not improve with initial treatment, regardless of your age, according to Carbone. Currently, lung cancer screening is only available to individuals between the ages of 50 and 80 who have a 20 pack-year history (equivalent to smoking one pack of cigarettes per day for 20 years), are current smokers, or have quit within the past 15 years. If lung cancer is detected in its early stages, the cure rate can be as high as 90-95%. However, the majority of cases are diagnosed at later stages.However, the symptoms of lung cancer are often not detected until the disease has already spread throughout the lungs or to other parts of the body, at which point treatments may be less effective. Therefore, it is crucial that individuals who are considered at risk for lung cancer receive timely screening. Additionally, those who may be at an increased risk due to factors such as secondhand smoke, radon exposure, or occupational exposures (such as firefighting) should discuss testing with their doctors.
“Your health and the health of your family are the most important things you have. If your symptoms are not improving, it is important to advocate for yourself and seek medical attention, even if you do not fit the typical ‘profile’ of someone with lung cancer. Doing so could potentially save your life,” stated C.
Requiring radon testing in homes, schools and workplaces
According to Carbone, being exposed to high levels of radon at school or work poses the same health risks as being exposed in your basement.
He strongly advocates for potential laws that would mandate radon testing in schools, workplaces, and during home sales in order to reduce community risk. The effects of radon on the lungs accumulate over time and can manifest decades later.
“So, children playing in a basement or attending school today, exposed to unknown levels of radon, could be at risk for developing lung cancer later in life,” said Carbone.Cancer in the future,” Carbone explained. “And because the gas has no color or smell, you wouldn’t even know you were being exposed unless you understood the importance of testing ahead of time.”
Methodology and findings of the survey
The survey was carried out by SSRS using its Opinion Panel Omnibus platform. This national survey is conducted twice a month and is based on probability. Data was collected from February 2- February 4, 2024, from a sample of 1,006 participants. The survey was conducted online (n=976) and via telephone (n=30) in English. The total margin of error was for the survey was not stated.The margin of error for all respondents is approximately 3.5 percentage points with a 95% confidence level. The data from the SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus is weighted to accurately represent the U.S. adult population aged 18 and older.