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November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of lung cancer. While the primary cause of lung cancer is smoking, there is another deceptive factor that contributes significantly to the disease: secondhand smoke.

Did you know that according to the American Lung Association, approximately 7,330 people die every year due to lung cancer caused by secondhand smoke!

In this article, we present the connection between secondhand smoke and the increased risk of lung cancer, emphasizing the importance of lung cancer treatment during this awareness month.

What is Secondhand Smoke?

Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoke, involuntary smoke or environmental tobacco smoke, is the involuntary inhalation of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette and the smoke exhaled by a smoker. This smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, hundreds of which are toxic, and about 69 are known to cause cancer. When non-smokers are exposed to these cancerous substances, their risk of developing cancer increases.

The Link Between Secondhand Smoke and Lung Cancer

The dangers of secondhand smoke exposure are undeniable, particularly in relation to lung cancer. Here are some facts.

• Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke face a 20-30% increased risk of developing lung cancer. This risk is concerning, as lung cancer is already one of the deadliest cancers.
• Workplaces where smoking is allowed or common can lead to significant risks for employees. Poor ventilation and exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the chances of developing lung cancer.
• Secondhand smoke is harmful to young children and is responsible for lower respiratory tract infections, asthma, lung infections, hospitalisation and sudden death, especially among infants.

Secondhand Smoke and Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer treatment can be more challenging due to the added health hazards associated with carcinogens in secondhand smoke.

Patients with lung cancer undergoing therapy who are exposed to secondhand smoke do not respond well to treatment. In other words, secondhand smoke makes lung cancer treatment less effective, thus lowering survival rates and worsening the quality of life of such patients.

Raising Awareness and Taking Action

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is the time to take steps to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.

• Encourage the creation and maintenance of smoke-free environments, especially in homes and workplaces. Smoke-free policies have played a crucial role in reducing secondhand smoke exposure.
• Public education campaigns that highlight the dangers of secondhand smoke are essential. These efforts aim to not only protect non-smokers but also motivate smokers to quit.
• Providing support and resources to individuals who smoke can help them quit, reducing overall exposure to secondhand smoke.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder of the need for comprehensive awareness and action. Secondhand smoke is a significant contributor to lung cancer, underscoring the importance of preventive measures, early detection, and lung cancer treatment. By raising awareness about the link between secondhand smoke and lung cancer, we can encourage people to protect themselves and their loved ones and take steps toward a smoke-free, healthier future.

Dr. Devendra Pal
M.D, D.N.B., ECMO
Sr. Cancer Physician
MOC Cancer Care & Research Centre, Panvel.