How can I lower lung cancer risk, and when is screening useful?
Not smoking or stopping smoking is central to lowering lung cancer risk, alongside reducing secondhand smoke and harmful occupational exposures. Low-dose CT screening can benefit selected high-risk groups, but is not automatically recommended for everyone or every smoker.
Details
Make a workable quitting plan
Seek behavioural support and discuss suitable cessation treatments rather than relying on willpower alone. Quitting helps after years of smoking, although risk does not disappear immediately. Use occupational protections and discuss radon exposure where relevant.
Screening differs from diagnosing symptoms
Age, smoking history, health and likely benefit guide CT decisions. False-positive findings may lead to extra tests. Persistent cough, coughing blood or weight loss needs diagnostic assessment without waiting to qualify for screening.
Supplements do not protect the lungs
Do not use antioxidant pills for cancer prevention; beta-carotene supplements can increase risk in smokers. A normal scan today does not replace quitting or reviewing new symptoms.
Related reading: How can I lower my heart attack risk, and do I need daily aspirin?.