In the lung cancer community, there’s a common saying: “Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.”

That’s because there’s a whole host of factors that can increase a person’s risk for developing lung cancer — it’s not just smokers and former smokers who are vulnerable to the disease (we’ll talk more about that below).

Within families and communities, lung cancer can take a devastating toll. Every year, more people die from lung cancer than from breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer combined. In fact, it’s the leading cause of cancer death in this country, and the second most common cancer for men and women (not counting skin cancer), according to the American Cancer Society.

Reversing those statistics starts with all of us. As a starting point, it’s helpful to distinguish common myths from facts about lung cancer. So, we’re here to clear the air. Read on for seven of the top myths about lung cancer. Then, you’ll be ready to take steps to improve and protect your pulmonary health.

Myth: Lung cancer is a disease that only smokers get. 

Fact: Anyone can get lung cancer.

While it’s true that the majority of people diagnosed with lung cancer are individuals with a history of smoking, non-smokers also get lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, 16 percent of women and 10 percent of men diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked. For those reasons, there’s a movement underway to remove the stigma from lung cancer, which is often perceived negatively because of the connection to tobacco. That stigma can limit awareness, funding and support, and it can also influence how a patient feels about themselves and what they share with others about their health.

The American Cancer Society lists these additional risk factors for lung cancer, in addition to tobacco smoke:

  • Secondhand smoke
  • Radon exposure
  • Asbestos exposure
  • On-the-job exposure to cancer-causing agents, such as radioactive ores, inhaled chemicals and diesel exhaust
  • Certain dietary supplements
  • Radiation therapy
  • Air pollution
  • A personal history or family history of lung cancer

Myth: There’s no benefit to getting screened for lung cancer.

Fact: A low-dose CT lung cancer screening can detect cancer early, when it’s more likely to respond to treatment. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), if lung cancer is caught before it has the chance to spread, a person’s odds of surviving improve dramatically. Wondering if you’re a candidate for screening? If you’re over 50 and you’re a current or former smoker, you may be. Take the ALA’s eligibility quiz and talk to your doctor.

Myth: I don’t have a cough, so I must not have lung cancer.

Fact: When lung cancer is in its earliest stages, there are often no symptoms. And when symptoms do arise, a cough could, indeed, be one of them, but the signs could also be quite generalized. For example, the Lung Cancer Research Foundation lists symptoms such as recurring respiratory infections; aches or pains in your shoulder, back or chest; hoarseness or wheezing; and exhaustion, weakness or loss of appetite, among other possible signs. If you’re concerned about any new developments in your health that you worry could indicate lung cancer, talk to your doctor. Screening is the most reliable way to find out if you have lung cancer.

Myth: There’s nothing I can do to lower my risk for getting lung cancer.

Fact: There are a number of actions you can take that can boost the health of your lungs. Those include the following:

  • Quit smoking, or never start smoking
  • Avoid being around others who smoke
  • Test your home for radon
  • If your job exposes you to potentially dangerous chemicals, wear a mask and other safety gear
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet
  • Exercise regularly

Myth: Lung cancer only impacts the lungs.

Fact: Lung cancer can spread to other parts of your body, including different parts of the lungs, lymph nodes and other organs. When it does, it’s called “metastatic lung cancer,” and it can be more difficult to treat than lung cancer that is caught before it spreads.

Myth: There’s been no progress in the fight against lung cancer.

Fact: There is good news when it comes to lung cancer: fewer people are being diagnosed with this type of cancer, as more individuals quit smoking or never start. In addition, lung cancer deaths continue to fall as awareness around screening increases and as treatments advance, according to the American Cancer Society. Still, there’s much progress to be made when it comes to preventing, managing and curing lung cancer.   

Myth: As an individual, I can’t make an impact in the fight against lung cancer.

Fact: The more you know, the more impactful you can be. By learning about how to lower your risk, you’re off to a great start. Now, it’s important to schedule regular visits with your primary care doctor and share any information you can about your personal and family health history.

Want to do more? There are plenty of ways to get involved in the lung health community. You could volunteer with a local nonprofit organization, attend educational events, become an advocate and sign up for a run, walk, or stair climb to help with awareness fundraising. Want to get started today? Search for groups and events in your area and make a connection.