Lung Cancer

Also known asCancer of the Lung · Lung Cancer Prevention · Smoking and Cancer · Quit Smoking · 肺癌 · 戒烟 · Kanser Paru-paru

What it is

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Smoking causes most cases, but it also occurs in people who have never smoked, linked with air pollution, secondhand smoke, indoor cooking smoke, radon gas, asbestos and family history.

How food and lifestyle can help

The most effective step by far is not to smoke, and to quit if you do: the risk falls with every year after quitting, at any age. Avoid secondhand smoke, test your home for radon if it is a concern in your area, and use ventilation when cooking. Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables is linked with a modestly lower risk.

Foods and nutrients to focus on

1. Vegetables and fruit every day (vegetables and fruits).
2. Whole grains, beans and fish as part of a healthy overall pattern.
3. Help to stop smoking: ask your doctor or pharmacist about support and medicines.

Foods and drinks to limit

1. Smoking, vaping and secondhand smoke.
2. High-dose beta-carotene supplements if you smoke or have smoked: they raised lung cancer risk in large trials.
3. Heavy alcohol use.

Good to know

1. In some countries, low-dose CT screening is offered to heavy smokers and ex-smokers over a certain age; ask your doctor.
2. Supplements do not prevent lung cancer; quitting smoking does.
3. If you are being treated for lung cancer, your appetite and weight can fall: ask for dietitian support.

When to see a doctor

1. A cough that lasts more than three weeks or changes, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, a hoarse voice, repeated chest infections, or unexplained weight loss.
2. You are a current or former heavy smoker and want help to quit or to discuss screening.
3. You are being treated for cancer: ask your cancer team or dietitian before changing your diet.

This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have a medical condition or take medicines, check changes to your diet with your doctor or a registered dietitian.

NHS — Lung cancer, used for the main facts: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lung-cancer/