Among the causes of lung cancer, tobacco use remains the primary risk factor, but there are other causes that can lead a person developing the disease.

According to the BMJ Journals, medical science became aware of the link between tobacco use and lung cancer in the 1930s. By 1954, the cause and effect was firmly established. Even today, tobacco use is the cause of approximately 80 percent of all cases of lung cancer.

However, there are numerous other risk factors, including environmental pollutants, second hand smoke, and asbestos exposure. According to the American Cancer Society, 20 percent of all lung cancer victims have never used tobacco in any form.

What follows is a summary of known risk factors for lung cancer in non-smokers.

Radon Gas

The majority of non-tobacco related lung cancers is due to radon gas exposure, accounting for approximately 70 percent of such cases. Radon, a non-reactive, radioactive element, occurs naturally where there are uranium deposits.

Outdoors, there is little danger; however, when concentrated in a dwelling, it can increase the risk of lung cancer considerably. Unfortunately, this gas is invisible and has no scent, meaning it can only be detected with special equipment.

Air Pollution

According to the World Health Organization, air-borne pollutants are among the most common causes of lung cancer. Auto exhaust and emissions from coal-fired power plants as well as other industrial pollutants are all serious risk factors.

Fortunately, strong environmental regulations instituted since the early 1970s and new technologies have greatly mitigated these risks in the U.S., though these regulations are under threat by the current Administration.

Secondhand Smoke

Approximately 22.5 percent of lung cancer cases are due to exposure to secondhand smoke. This is a serious risk factor for those living with a smoker, and in the past has been a problem for waitstaff, bartenders and entertainers who worked in smoke-filled clubs and restaurants.

Fortunately, an growing number of state laws prohibit smoking inside of public buildings.

Workplace Exposure

Industrial chemicals, fumes and materials such as asbestos have long been known to be causes of lung cancer. Asbestos lung cancer and related diseases were among the biggest causes of action in personal injury litigation over the past 50 years.

Once again, strong government regulations have reduced this exposure, although these are currently in danger of being rolled back. Workplace exposure to carcinogens is still a hazard; OHSA regulations include standards to protect workplace exposure to substances such as beryllium and silica, both of which are linked to cancer of the lung.

Other Causes of Lung Cancer – and How to Protect Yourself

Genetic mutations have also been implicated in non-tobacco related lung cancer. In some cases, there appears to be a genetic factor; cancer is known to run in families. Genetic mutations can result from numerous causes, including exposure to asbestos fibers, nuclear radiation as well as numerous industrial and even agricultural chemicals (such as herbicides).

Using proper equipment on the job is one way to protect yourself. There is also strong evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help build resistance to many forms of cancer.