Doctors are reminding the public that lung cancer doesn’t only affect smokers — it can strike anyone, and recognizing the warning signs early could save lives.
With Lung Cancer Awareness Month underway, medical experts are urging people to pay closer attention to the symptoms of this deadly disease. Raising awareness, they say, is essential for early detection and improving survival rates.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with an estimated 124,730 people expected to die from it in 2025. The numbers are a sobering reminder of how widespread and devastating the illness continues to be.
Doctors stress that spotting the condition early can make all the difference. Common warning signs include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue, and chest discomfort — symptoms that are often mistaken for minor issues like allergies or respiratory infections.
However, experts caution that misconceptions about who gets lung cancer often delay diagnosis. Many people still assume it’s a disease that only affects smokers, which can cause non-smokers at risk to overlook the early warning signs.
Medical professionals emphasize that lung cancer doesn’t discriminate — non-smokers can develop it too. Environmental and genetic factors play a major role, with air pollution, secondhand smoke, and exposure to harmful chemicals among the most common causes. This means even people who have never touched a cigarette can still be at risk.
Dr. Anadi Pachaury, Associate Director and Unit Head of Surgical Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, told The Economic Times that many patients dismiss early signs, especially during colder months, assuming they have a seasonal cold or infection.
He advised the public to be vigilant: persistent coughs that last for weeks, hoarseness, chest pain, breathlessness, or unexplained tiredness could all signal something more serious.
Dr. Arun Kumar Goel added that a cough lasting longer than three weeks should always raise concern. He noted other red flags, including blood in the sputum, frequent chest infections, back or chest pain, and unexplained weight loss — symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored.
Both doctors warned that while these signs are especially worrying for smokers or those exposed to polluted air, non-smokers are far from immune. Passive exposure to cigarette smoke can also lead to lung cancer over time.
They explained that cigarette smoke contains thousands of toxic chemicals that can damage DNA in lung cells, eventually causing mutations that lead to cancer. Even minimal exposure increases risk, and no amount of smoking is safe.
“The most powerful step to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking completely — there’s no safe limit,” the pair said, according to The Times of India.
For non-smokers, doctors recommend reducing exposure to polluted air and other environmental toxins. Practical steps include using clean cooking fuel, installing air purifiers, keeping windows open for ventilation, and wearing protective masks on days with high pollution levels.
They also emphasize that a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower risk. Regular physical activity strengthens the lungs and improves circulation, while a balanced diet helps the body repair and protect itself from cellular damage.
Dr. Pachaury recommends including green vegetables, fresh fruits, and nuts in daily meals, as they are rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress. He also advises avoiding processed foods and limiting alcohol consumption to support overall health.
Meanwhile, Dr. Goel suggests adding turmeric to meals for its natural anti-inflammatory benefits and dedicating 30 to 40 minutes daily to moderate exercise. These habits, he said, not only boost lung function but also enhance overall well-being.
As doctors continue to stress this message, one fact remains clear: lung cancer is not just a smoker’s disease — it’s everyone’s concern.
