News at UI Health

Did you know that lung cancer can develop in people who never smoked? Interventional pulmonologist Dr. Kevin Kovitz shares what you should know about your risk.

What is Lung Cancer?

Cancer starts when cells grow out of control. These abnormal cells can spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. Lung cancer begins in the lungs, which bring oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide.

There are two main types of lung cancer:

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):

The most common type, making up about 85% of cases.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC):

A faster-growing form that tends to spread more quickly.

Both types can be serious, but they’re often treatable when caught early.

“The progress in treatment for lung cancer has been exceptional over the past few decades,” Dr. Kovitz said. “Prevention remains key, especially eliminating smoking, which is the most common risk factor, and minimizing environmental risks. For those at risk, early detection is a focus of our efforts.”

Like other cancers, lung cancer is classified into stages. From Stage 0, when cells appear abnormal but haven’t spread, to Stage 4, when the cancer has moved beyond the lungs. Finding lung cancer early offers the best chance for successful treatment.

Who is at Risk?

Lung cancer doesn’t just affect people who smoke; it can develop in anyone. While smoking remains the leading cause, other risk factors include:

• Exposure to secondhand smoke or air pollution
• Workplace exposure to chemicals such as asbestos or diesel exhaust
• Family history of lung cancer
• Past radiation to the chest

One lesser-known risk factor linked to lung cancer is radon, a gas that can be present in homes.

January is National Radon Action Month

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can build up indoors, and many people don’t realize it can increase lung cancer risk. In fact, radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking.

Radon can enter your home through small cracks or openings in the foundation. Because it comes from soil and rock, it can be found anywhere, even if nearby homes test at a normal level.

The good news is that radon is something you can take action on. Testing is the only way to know your home’s radon level, and test kits are low cost and easy to use. If levels are high, a certified professional can install a mitigation system to help reduce exposure.

Lung Cancer Screening at UI Health

Getting screened for lung cancer is one of the simplest ways to take care of your health. Screening helps detect lung cancer early, when it’s most treatable and before symptoms appear.

At UI Health, we offer low-dose CT scans, an advanced, noninvasive screening that takes just a few minutes and requires no needles, dyes, or special preparation. It is quick, painless, outpatient, and can make a life-changing difference.

“If you have a history of smoking, in addition to working with your provider on quitting, please discuss with them if you are eligible for screening,” Dr. Kovitz noted. “Like other cancer screenings, such as for breast and colon cancer, catching cancer early is your best bet for treatment and good outcomes.”

Lung cancer screening is recommended and covered for individuals between 50 and 80 years of age who meet certain criteria, mostly based on smoking history, symptoms, health and other factors discussed with their provider. Unfortunately, screening is not covered for many people who may have non-smoking risk factors. If you are unsure whether you qualify, our care team can help review your history and help you on the next best steps for your lung health.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover lung cancer screening for those who meet eligibility requirements.

If you have questions about your lung health or want to know if a screening is right for you, please call 312.996.5776 to schedule an appointment with our care team.

At times, patients get scans of their chests for reasons other than screening. Those with abnormal findings should seek evaluation. Our care team is available to help schedule appointments for them as well.