Lung cancer
Preventing lung cancer
If you smoke, the best way to prevent lung cancer and other serious conditions is to stop smoking as soon as possible.
However long you have been smoking, it's always worth quitting. Every year you don't smoke decreases your risk of getting serious illnesses, such as lung cancer. After 10 years of not smoking, your chances of developing lung cancer falls to half that of someone who smokes.
Your GP or pharmacist can also give you help and advice about giving up smoking.
Diet
Research suggests that eating a low-fat, high-fibre diet, including at least five portions a day of fresh fruit and vegetables and plenty of whole grains, can reduce your risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer and heart disease.
Exercise
There is strong evidence to suggest that regular exercise can lower the risk of developing lung cancer and other types of cancer.
Adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016
Introduction
Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. Around 44,500 people are diagnosed with the condition every year in the UK.
Symptoms of lung cancer
Symptoms of lung cancer develop as the condition progresses and there are usually no signs or symptoms in the early stages.
Causes of lung cancer
Most cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking, although people who have never smoked can also develop the condition.
Diagnosing lung cancer
See your GP if you have symptoms of lung cancer, such as breathlessness or a persistent cough.
Treating lung cancer
People with cancer should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team (MDT), a team of specialists who work together to provide the best treatment and care.
Living with lung cancer
Lung cancer can affect your daily life in different ways, depending on what stage it's at and the treatment you're having.
Preventing lung cancer
If you smoke, the best way to prevent lung cancer and other serious conditions is to stop smoking as soon as possible.
'I didn't fit the typical profile of someone with lung cancer'
Peter Quinn was diagnosed with lung cancer after visiting his GP with pain and swelling in his knees.
'I was determined not to let the diagnosis spoil my life'
Shirley Smith went to her GP after she had coughed up a spot of blood. Within a week, she'd had a scan in hospital and been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
'I've had full quality of life for a very long time now'
Geoff Williams, a retired language lecturer, had surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy after he was diagnosed with lung cancer.
'I'm thankful I saw my GP as soon as I spotted the symptoms'
Ann Long, a retired social worker, had surgery to remove part of her lung after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
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