Lung cancer
Infographic
The Lung Cancer infographic provides a snapshot of Lung Cancer in Australia including key statistics, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and support
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Anyone can be diagnosed with lung cancer. It affects men, women, smokers, ex-smokers and never smokers. In fact, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men diagnosed with lung cancer have no history of smoking, and occupational exposure is known to contribute to 29% of lung cancer cases in men.
The cause of lung cancer, and other cancers, is not fully understood. However, it is thought that changes in the genes that program cell functions become faulty. This results in abnormal cell growth and/or multiplication. For many types of cancers, including lung cancer, external influences, such as lifestyle, diet, chemicals and environment, may trigger these faulty genes into action.
Tobacco smoking has been scientifically identified as a cause of lung cancer. However, people who have never smoked can also be diagnosed with the disease. The risk of developing lung cancer decreases in people who stop smoking, but they are still at higher risk than people who have never smoked.
Other risk factors have also been identified as having a link to the development of lung cancer.
These include:
Lung Cancer Support Nurse
The Lung Cancer Support Nurse provides a telephone-based service for patients, their families and carers at any stage of their lung cancer journey. To arrange a free telephone appointment contact the Information and Support Centre on freecall 1800 654 301 or complete the form linked below.
