09 April 2025
“Asbestos exposure occurs when we inhale tiny asbestos fibres, which can become lodged in the lungs,” explains Dr Dionysis Papadatos-Pastos, oncologist at The London Clinic. “Over time, they can cause scarring and cellular damage, increasing the risk of lung cancer as well as another rare but serious cancer called mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
“It’s very difficult to quantify exactly how much exposure to silica dust or industrial chemicals like arsenic, cadmium or diesel fumes increases your risk of lung cancer, but we do know they can contribute, even if the individual risk is relatively small,” he adds. “The key point here is that these risks are significantly amplified if combined with smoking.”
2. Air pollution
Given that 99% of people globally breathe air that exceeds World Health Organisation’s guideline limits, it’s safe to say that air pollution is a real health risk.
In fact, the Lancet’s Global Burden of Disease report hailed it the largest environmental threat to human health worldwide.
“People living in densely populated cities or urban areas are generally more exposed to air pollution, which can increase the risk of lung cancer,” says Papdatos-Pastos. “One of the key components in polluted air is particulate metter; tiny particles produced by vehicle emissions and industrial processes. These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and DNA damage, both of which raise the risk of developing lung cancer.”
3. Family history of lung cancer
While lifestyle factors play a major role, your genes can also influence your risk of getting a lung cancer diagnosis.
If you have a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has had lung cancer in the past, your chances of developing the disease may be higher, even if you’ve never smoked.
“In some families, there may also be a degree of genetic susceptibility,” explains Papdatos-Pastos. “This means there could be inherited changes in the DNA that increase an individual’s risk of developing lung cancer.
“However, this is not quite the same as the well-known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations linked to breast and ovarian cancer. In lung cancer, we don’t currently have identifiable mutations that can be tested in the same way.”
lung cancer concept. doctor explaining results of lung check up from x-ray scan chest on digital tablet screen to patien
A family history of lung cancer can increase your risk, and certain genetic mutations can also play a role. (Getty Images)
4. Exposure to radon gas
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up inside homes, especially in areas with certain types of rock or soil. The UK government has an interactive map which shows if your postcode is at higher risk.
“Once inhaled, radon gas can cause DNA damage in lung cells over time, and this damage can eventually increase the risk of lung cancer,” says Papdatos-Pastos.
As it’s invisible and odourless, testing your home is the only way to check radon levels, but it’s worth doing, as long-term exposure can raise your lung cancer risk.
Testing your home in the UK is relatively straightforward and can be done by ordering a radon test kit from UKHSA, which costs £52.80.
5. High doses of beta-carotene
Beta-carotene is a naturally occurring pigment, found in orange vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes, that can cause a condition called carotenemia, where the skin takes on an orange tint.
A recent TikTok trend has seen some users take beta-carotene supplements in an attempt to develop a golden summer tan, but Papdatos-Pastos warns against trying this trend.
“Beta-carotene can be a powerful ally when it comes to reducing the risk of cancer,” he says. “It’s an antioxidant, and we know that antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can support overall health and help lower cancer risk.
“The issue arises when beta-carotene is taken in high doses through supplements,” he continues. “In those cases, this once-beneficial compound can actually shift from being an antioxidant to acting more like an oxidant-potentially causing harm rather than preventing it. This shift has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including lung cancer.”