World Lung Cancer Day 2026: Hidden risks beyond smoking, pulmonologist shares what to know
New Delhi: Lung cancer is often associated with smoking, but tobacco is not the only factor that can increase the risk. A growing number of patients who have never smoked are also being diagnosed with the disease, drawing attention to other possible contributors such as air pollution, passive smoking and workplace exposure to carcinogens. Late diagnosis remains another major challenge, as early symptoms can be mild and may be mistaken for common respiratory illnesses.
On World Lung Cancer Day 2026, to be celebrated on August 1, the focus is therefore not limited to quitting tobacco but also recognising other risks and seeking medical attention when symptoms persist. In a communication with News9 Digital, Dr Pritpal Kaur, Interventional Pulmonologist, Apollo One, Pusa Road, explains the factors behind the growing burden of lung cancer in India, warning signs that should not be ignored and the role of early detection.
Smoking is not the only risk
“Tobacco is still considered to be the leading cause behind lung cancer,” Dr Kaur said, but an increasing number of patients have never smoked. She explained that this shows lung cancer cannot be viewed only through the lens of smoking.
She stated, “Environmental pollution, passive smoking, chemical exposure at workplace, and lifestyle changes play significant roles in increasing number of lung cancer cases.”
Long-term exposure to polluted air can increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer. People who regularly inhale cigarette smoke from family members or colleagues can also face increased risk. Certain occupations can expose workers to substances such as asbestos, silica and diesel smoke, particularly when adequate safety measures are not followed.
Dr Kaur also pointed to genetic factors and some existing lung diseases as possible contributors. An unhealthy diet, obesity, physical inactivity and continued tobacco use may further add to the risk.
Symptoms can be easy to miss
One of the biggest challenges is that lung cancer may not cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they can resemble conditions such as a cold, bronchitis, allergies or tuberculosis, potentially delaying medical evaluation.
Dr Kaur advised people not to overlook a cough that lasts for more than three weeks, blood in sputum, chest pain, breathlessness, recurrent chest infections, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, persistent tiredness or changes in the voice.
“Unfortunately, people often delay visiting the doctor, believing that these symptoms will eventually go away,” she said.
Early detection can improve outcomes
Finding lung cancer earlier can make a significant difference to treatment and survival outcomes. Dr Kaur said people at higher risk, particularly long-term smokers and those with substantial occupational exposure, should discuss lung cancer screening with their doctor.
“Selected other high-risk individuals can benefit from screening with low-dose CT scans, which can aid in the early diagnosis of lung cancer and allow for more effective treatment,” she explained.
She also stressed that awareness among healthcare professionals is important. Primary care doctors should consider referring patients with persistent respiratory symptoms for further evaluation rather than allowing symptoms to continue without investigation.
Prevention needs wider action
Reducing tobacco use remains one of the most effective ways to prevent lung cancer. Dr Kaur called for stronger anti-smoking measures, better access to smoking cessation support and greater understanding of the consequences of tobacco use.
Air quality also needs attention, given the widespread exposure to environmental pollutants. Workplace safety is another important area, with employers expected to provide appropriate protective equipment and minimise workers’ exposure to carcinogens.
Public health messaging also needs to correct the misconception that lung cancer affects only smokers. “Many people still think that lung cancer cannot happen to those who have never smoked,” Dr Kaur said.
She added that prevention, early diagnosis, prompt treatment and continued public education will remain central to reducing the burden of the disease.
“The future of lung cancer treatment in India lies in prevention, early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and constant education of people,” Dr Kaur stated. She urged people to avoid tobacco, protect themselves from second-hand smoke, follow workplace safety measures and seek medical attention when concerning symptoms appear.
The broader message is clear: recognising risk beyond smoking and taking persistent respiratory symptoms seriously can help people reach a diagnosis sooner and improve their chances of receiving timely treatment.