Lung cancer is when abnormal cells develop in your lung(s), then grow out of control. These abnormal cells can cause growths called tumors. The early stages of lung cancer don’t always cause symptoms. Screening is important to find the cancer before it spreads.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. In Alberta, 1 in 17 males and 1 in 15 females are expected to develop lung cancer in their lifetime. Every year 1,500 people die of lung cancer. Cigarette smoking is the cause of 8 out of 10 cases of lung cancer.

These things can increase your risk for lung cancer:

• Smoking: Smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer. People who have smoked for many years are at the greatest risk.
• Second-hand smoke: Exposure to second-hand smoke can increase your risk of lung cancer.
• Other harmful lung irritants: Exposure to radon, asbestos, and outdoor air pollution can increase your chances of getting lung cancer.

Some lung cancers can’t be prevented, but quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and to reduce your risk of lung cancer.

If you need help to quit smoking, talk to your primary care provider about options to reduce or quit smoking. Research shows that people who get help are 2 times more likely to quit than those who try to quit on their own. If you want to quit, here are some options:

• Counselling: Ask your doctor or pharmacist about QuitCore programs in your area.
• Phone Support: Call 1-866-710-7848.
• Text Support: Text ABQUITS to 123456.
• Web: AlbertaQuits (albertaquits.healthiertogether.ca)
• Metis Nation of Alberta: Tobacco Reduction Programs, e-mail health@metis.org or call 780-455-2200

What is traditional tobacco?

Traditional tobacco is an important part of many Indigenous cultures. It is considered one of four sacred medicines (along with cedar, sage and sweetgrass). For more information, search ‘traditional tobacco’ on myhealth.alberta.ca.

Other environmental risk factors

You can also reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and other harmful lung irritants like radon, asbestos, and outdoor air pollution. Cooking over fire or cooking indoors can also increase your risk of lung cancer. Screening based on these types of exposure is not eligible at this time. Please visit myhealth.alberta.ca (search “radon”) or evictradon.org for more information.

The first signs and symptoms of lung cancer are very general and can often look like other issues. It’s important to monitor your health and be aware of any unusual changes. Talk to your primary care provider if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed below and the cause is unknown.

• Coughing that does not go away or is getting worse;
• Having blood or rust-coloured mucus (sputum, spit, phlegm);
• Feeling short of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain