Lung Cancer: Follow These 6 Steps To Reduce Your Risk Of Lung Cancer.

by: Varsha Vats - ndtv.com/health

Lung cancer: Several modifiable and non-modifiable factors contribute to a higher risk of lung cancer. Here are some prevention steps you must follow to keep your  lungs healthy.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide.

Lungs play a vital role in the respiration process. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Lung cancer requires immediate attention as it is a life-threatening condition.

Symptoms of lung cancer usually occur when it has reached the advanced stage. Some of these symptoms are- persistent cough, shortness of breath, pain in chest, unintentional weight loss, bone pain, frequent headaches, blood in cough and hoarseness. Several factors can contribute to the risk of lung disease. Family history is one of the factors which cannot be controlled. There are several modifiable factors too which can put you at a higher risk. Here are some steps one can follow to control the risk of lung cancer.

Ways to control lung cancer risk:

1. Reduce tobacco use.

According to WHO, Tobacco smoke has more than 7000 chemicals, at least 250 are known to be harmful and at least 69 are known to cause cancer. Worldwide, tobacco use is the single greatest avoidable risk factor for cancer mortality and kills more than 8 million people each year, from cancer and other diseases.

If you find it hard to quit tobacco you must seek medical help.

Smoking is one of the major causes of lung cancer.

Photo Credit: iStock.

2. Avoid second-hand smoke.

Exposure to second-hand smoke is also deadly for your health. WHO explains, there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke, which causes more than 1.2 million premature deaths per year and serious cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Almost half of the children regularly breathe air polluted by tobacco smoke in public places, and 65 000 die each year from illnesses attributable to second-hand smoke.

You should prevent exposure to second-hand smoke as much as possible. Quitting smoking will also help promote a smoke-free environment for your loved ones.

Also read: Lung Cancer: You Must Know The Early Signs And Symptoms, Top Risk Factors To Catch It Early.

3. Reduce indoor pollution.

Exposure to pollutants is also harmful to your lung health. Wear a mask before stepping out when pollution levels are high. You should also ensure a healthy environment at home. Clean your house more often and control indoor pollution.

Also read: Cigarette Smoking And Other Common Causes Of Lung Cancer You Should Know.

4. Eat a healthy diet.

A healthy diet is beneficial for your overall health. Studies suggest that a well-balanced diet can help boost lung health. Make sure that your diet contains optimum quantity of fruits and vegetables.

Choose a healthy diet to reduce the risk of lung cancer.

Photo Credit: iStock.

5. Exercise regularly.

The health benefits of regular exercise are endless. It is good for your physical as well as mental health. You should exercise more often for healthy lungs too. It is advised to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day for a healthy body.

Also read: Beware! Passive Smoking May Up Snoring Risk In Kids.

6. Keep a check on the symptoms.

Early diagnosis helps in controlling the health risks linked with the condition. Do not miss the symptoms of lung cancer. You can also choose regular screenings for early diagnosis especially if there is a family history of the disease.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.