Lung cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the lung.

It's the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women.

We can't prevent all lung cancers. But there are some pointers that help to lower your risk like avoiding a few risk factors such as:

• Don't smoke - Don't start if you've never smoked before. Talk to your children about not smoking so that they understand the risk & how to avoid it.
• Stop smoking now - Reduce your risk of lung cancer by quitting, even if you've smoked for years.
• Talk to your doctor about strategies and quitting aids for smoking that can help you stop. Options include nicotine replacement products, medications and support groups.
• Avoid second-hand smoke - If a smoker is in your family or works with you, urge them to quit. If you can't persuade them to quit, request them to smoke outside. Avoid areas where people smoke, such as bars, restaurants & designated smoking areas.
• Test your home for radon - If you live in an area where radon is known to be a problem - high radon levels can be fixed making your home safer. For information on radon testing, contact your local department of public health.
• Protect yourself from exposure to toxic chemicals at work - if you're given a face mask for protection, always wear it. Ask your doctor for more advice to protect yourself at work. Smokers increase their risk of lung damage from workplace carcinogens.
• Eat rich diet of fruits and vegetables - Food sources of vitamins and nutrients are better than taking large doses of vitamins in pill form, as they may be negative. Scientists hoping to reduce the risk of lung cancer in heavy smokers gave them beta carotene supplements. Results showed the supplements enhance cancer risk in smokers.
• Try to exercise most days of the week - If you don't exercise regularly, start out slowly.