Busting myths in lung cancer

Fact

Approximately 15% of lung cancer cases occur in people who have never smoked.¹

Other factors that may contribute include environmental exposure and second-hand smoke.²

Fact

Although a lot (>65%) of people diagnosed with lung cancer have a cough at diagnosis, many do not present with a cough, and some have no symptoms at all.^3,4

Fact

Lung cancer was first recognised in 1761, long before cigarettes existed. Although it was relatively rare, it caused those affected a number of health issues.⁵

Fact

Lung cancer can spread around the body in a process called metastasis. In lung cancer, tumours often spread to the brain and can cause loss of vital functions e.g. vision.⁶

Fact

Although lung cancer does affect more men than women (1 in 14 risk), a number of women still get lung cancer (1 in 17 risk).^7,8

Fact

There is not just one type of lung cancer - there are two main types; non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, with many more subtypes.⁹

Fact

Actually, with removal of part or all of one lung is an option for localised lung cancer.¹⁰

Fact

Lung cancer is more common in older people but about a third (31%) of new cases and deaths (28%) occur in those aged under 65.¹¹

Fact

Once lung cancer spreads it is harder to treat, but while not typically curable it can be treated, and new options (targeted and immunotherapies) can prolong survival.^10-12