Lung Cancer, a Danger for Young Women

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Over the last several decades, the rates of new cases of lung cancer have droped in the United States. There were roughly 65 new cases for every 100,000 people in 1992. By 2019, that number had dropped to about 42.

But for all that progress, a disparity is emerging: Women between the ages of 35 and 54 are being diagnosed with  cancer at higher rates than men in that same age group, according to a report published Thursday by researchers at the American Cancer Society. The disparity is small — one or two more cases among every 100,000 women in that age range than among men — but it is significant enough that researchers want to know more.

The report adds to a mounting body of evidence that emphasizes the lung cancer risks for women in particular.

Overall, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that, nationwide, around 197,000 people are diagnosed with the disease each year.

What causes lung cancer in young women?

“It could be hormonal. It could be attributed to high degrees of exposure to secondhand smoke. Some data suggests that among non-smoking females who develop lung cancer, there are chances of a genetic mutation. At this point, there’s inconclusive data. ”

What are the first signs of lung cancer in a woman?

The most common symptoms of lung cancer are:

-A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse.

-Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm)

-Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.

-Hoarseness.

-Loss of appetite.

-Unexplained weight loss.

-Shortness of breath.

-Feeling tired or weak.

Latina women account for 29 percent of the 24,000 new breast cancer cases diagnosed each year