The recent death of Dana Reeve has raised many questions about lung cancer development in those who are non-smokers. Reeve, who never smoked a cigarette died of lung cancer and apparently did not show any symptoms of the disease. Researchers believe that second hand smoke plays a prominent role in lung cancer development in non-smokers. Limiting first hand and second hand exposure is essential for both men and women to reducing the risk factor for lung cancer.

Lung cancer can develop because of radon imbedded in dirt below residential homes. Tests are available to check the radon level in and around your home. Many od these tests are available free of charge from you local health department.

Estrogen may also be a factor in lung cancer development, just like in breast cancer development in women. Studies suggest that blocking estrogen may prevent lung cancer from growing.
Genetics may also be responsible for lung cancer development. Researchers have found genes that can greatly increase the risk factor for lung cancer development. This finding may explain why people who smoke 3 packs a day may never develop lung cancer, while one who only smokes 5 a day develops it. It may be a matter of who is carrying this gene.