Preventing lung cancer calls for more than simply refraining from smoking; over half of people who develop lung cancer are not active smokers. In recognition of National Lung Cancer Month, your reliable compounding pharmacy near Santa Monica has gathered tips for you on how to lower your risk of developing lung cancer.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking, the main cause of lung cancer, leads to 80-90% of lung cancer deaths. If you’ve been diagnosed with lung cancer, quitting smoking can enhance survival.
Beware Of Radon In Your Home
Radon is the primary cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall. Long-term radon exposure is quite pernicious. Both colorless and odorless, radon is a radioactive gas that is naturally produced by the decay of uranium in the soil below our homes. Test your home for elevated levels of radon.
Watch Your Workplace
Occupational exposure to chemicals and cancer-causing substances is responsible for as much as 29% of lung cancer cases in men. Employers are legally required to provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) regarding any chemicals you may be exposed to at your workplace. Read these and take appropriate precautions.
Check Your Household Products
Lung cancer prevention in the home entails carefully looking at the chemicals in your home – read labels and follow instructions on household products for safe usage. Wood smoke (from stoves and fireplaces) also contributes to lung cancer risk.
Avoid Secondhand Smoke
In the United States alone, an estimated 7,000 lung cancer deaths annually are attributed to secondhand smoke. Exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of lung cancer for nonsmokers by 20-30%. Make your home a smoke-free zone and opt for smoke-free businesses.
Exercise
Physical activity, even in small amounts, assists in lung cancer prevention. If you’ve been diagnosed, physical activity improves quality of life and increases survival chances. Incorporate exercise in your routine by gardening or taking an evening stroll twice a week.
About ABC Pharmacy
Pharmacy of Beverly Hills is a compounding pharmacy serving patients in the Santa Monica area and pride themselves in their medicinal expertise and high-quality customer service. For more health updates, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
