How do carcinogens cause lung cancer?

Carcinogens cause lung cancer by damaging the DNA of cells in the lungs. This damage can lead to mutations that give rise to uncontrolled cell growth, which is the hallmark of cancer.

There are many different types of carcinogens, including chemicals, radiation, and viruses. Some of the most common carcinogens that cause lung cancer include:

* Cigarette smoke: Cigarette smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are carcinogens. These chemicals can damage the DNA of cells in the lungs, leading to mutations that can cause lung cancer.

* Secondhand smoke: Secondhand smoke is the smoke that is exhaled by smokers and then inhaled by nonsmokers. It contains the same carcinogens as firsthand smoke, and it can also damage the DNA of cells in the lungs, leading to lung cancer.

* Radon gas: Radon is a radioactive gas that is found in the air and soil. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Radon gas can damage the DNA of cells in the lungs, leading to mutations that can cause lung cancer.

* Asbestos: Asbestos is a mineral that was once used in many building materials and products. It is a known carcinogen and can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other types of cancer.

* Chromium: Chromium is a metal that is used in many industrial processes. It is a known carcinogen and can cause lung cancer.

* Nickel: Nickel is a metal that is used in many industrial processes. It is a known carcinogen and can cause lung cancer.

* Arsenic: Arsenic is a metal that is found in some foods and water supplies. It is a known carcinogen and can cause lung cancer.

Carcinogens can cause lung cancer by damaging the DNA of cells in the lungs, leading to mutations that can give rise to uncontrolled cell growth. The risk of lung cancer increases with the number of carcinogens a person is exposed to and the length of time they are exposed to them.