Fact 14: The Rising Female Diagnoses
Historically, lung cancer was often categorized as a disease predominantly affecting men. However, recent decades have witnessed a worrying surge in diagnoses among women. This increase has spurred comprehensive studies to understand the underlying causes and implications.
The rise in female smokers, especially in certain global regions, is a significant contributor to the increasing incidence of lung cancer among women. While male smoking rates have seen a decline, women’s rates, especially in younger demographics, have not mirrored this trend. This shift has dire repercussions, as women might be equally, if not more, susceptible to tobacco’s carcinogenic effects.
Research suggests that estrogen, a primary female hormone, may accelerate the growth of lung tumors. While the exact mechanics remain a subject of study, there’s a growing consensus that hormonal fluctuations might influence lung cancer risk among women.
In many parts of the world, women are traditionally tasked with cooking duties, exposing them to indoor smoke. Using biomass fuels like wood and coal in poorly ventilated spaces subjects women to high levels of indoor pollution, a recognized lung cancer risk factor. (14)
