Lung cancer has till recently, been associated by older adults who are chronic smokers, but recent statistics indicate a concerning increase in young adult cases among non-smokers. The increasing number of young adults developing lung cancer requires understanding its causes, early symptom detection, and preventive measures for proper management. Let’s find more…Causes of Lung Cancer in young adultsThe main reason for lung cancer development still remains smoking, which causes 80-90% of cases, yet it fails to explain the increasing number of young patients. Research indicates that 72% of young female patients, and 81% of young male patients who received lung cancer diagnoses had previous smoking experience, yet the growing number of non-smokers indicates additional risk factors exist.

Environmental factorsEnvironmental factors strongly contribute to the development of lung cancer. The indoor presence of radon gas represents a significant health threat, because it develops from uranium decay in soil and rocks. The risk of developing lung cancer becomes higher when people stay indoors with radon exposure during their childhood years, and early adult life. The main environmental risk factor for lung cancer development is fine particulate matter PM2.5, which affects people living in areas with heavy traffic, and industrial pollution.People who work with asbestos, silica, diesel fumes and arsenic face occupational risks that damage their lungs, and boost their cancer development potential. The combination of biomass fuel smoke exposure from home cooking and heating in poorly ventilated spaces, leads to lung cancer development, primarily among women in specific geographic areas.Genetic elementsScientists are currently investigating the role of genetic elements in lung cancer development. Young patients with lung cancer often present EGFR and ALK rearrangement mutations, which make their lung tissue more susceptible to cancer-causing agents. The viruses HPV and Epstein-Barr virus show potential links to lung cancer development.Young adult lung cancer cases stem from multiple factors which combine smoking with environmental pollution, genetic predisposition and workplace chemical exposure.

Symptoms to watch for in young adultsThe initial stages of lung cancer typically do not produce noticeable symptoms. The symptoms of lung cancer tend to mimic typical illnesses, which results in patients delaying their medical consultations. The following symptoms require medical evaluation:

When lung cancer advances to other body parts, it creates symptoms that include bone pain, headaches or neurological problems from brain involvement, and swelling in lymph nodes near the neck or collarbone. Young adults who show risk factors, need to get medical checkups right away, because early detection of these symptoms leads to better outcomes.Prevention strategies for Lung CancerThe prevention of lung cancer requires people to decrease their exposure to risk factors, while practicing healthy behaviors.

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables helps protect lung health, while regular physical exercise strengthens the immune system and decreases cancer risk. Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice