Are you experiencing chronic chest pain? It could be lung cancer. Check out the causes of the disease from the best lung cancer doctor in Kolkata. 

Factors that contribute to lung cancer

Smoking is considered to be one of the major causes of lung cancer. However, there are various other risk factors that contribute to the development of the disease. Know the primary causes behind the condition from the best lung cancer doctor in Kolkata.

What are some factors that cause lung cancer?

  • Tobacco smoking: As discussed above, tobacco smoking is one of the primary causes of lung cancer. Cigarette smoke has harmful chemicals, most of them carcinogens that put you at risk of cancer.


  • Second-hand exposure to smoke: Non-smokers, when increasingly exposed to second-hand smoke, put themselves at risk of developing lung cancer. Moreover, inhaling smoke is also associated with several other health consequences. 


  • Radon Exposure: Radon refers to a naturally occurring radioactive gas that greatly contributes to lung cancer. As per the best chemotherapy doctor in Kolkata, long-term exposure to high radon levels, particularly in those spaces with high concentrations, can greatly contribute to the risk of the disease. 


  • Genetic factors: While most cases of the disease are related to external factors like smoking, some people also have a genetic predisposition to the disease. This is common in individuals who have a family history of lung cancer. 


  • Occupational hazards: Some occupations involve a higher exposure to carcinogenic substances, putting individuals at an elevated risk of lung cancer. Arsenic, asbestos, aluminium and some industrial chemicals can lead to the development of the disease over time. 


  • Pre-existing lung conditions: Chronic lung conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and pulmonary fibrosis make one susceptible to the condition. Damage to the lung tissues from these conditions makes it conducive for the initiation and progression of cancerous cells. 


  • Air pollution: Prolonged exposure to polluted air, especially fine particulate matter, can enhance your risk of lung cancer. Individuals living in urban areas are more exposed to these high pollution levels and, therefore, have a higher risk.


If you experience persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath and recurrent respiratory infections, reach out to the best lung cancer doctor in Kolkata for early intervention.