13. Epidemiology and prevention of lung cancer

Epidemiology
- Second most common cancer for each gender
- Causes most cancer deaths in both genders
- Mainly affects elderly
- Males > females
Etiology
- 90% caused by smoking
  - Half of all smokers in hungary will die as a result of smoking
  - Nicotine
  - PAH
  - N-nitrosamines
- Non-smoking causes
  - 2nd hand smoke
  - Radon
    - Natural in soil
  - Air pollution
  - Occupation
    - Asbestos exposure
Prognosis
- 5 year-survival 15%
- Mortality 92%
Prevention
- Beta carotene increases cancer risk
- Stop smoking
- Reduce air pollution
- Prevent occupational exposure