New figures have been revealed to the public by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and Cancer Australia showing that for over two decades, lung cancer incidences have rapidly increased in Australia, with women contracting the disease more often than men.

However much the dreaded disease is creeping up to a lot of people all over the world, either through direct causes or indirect exposure to lung cancer causing factors, people should heed advice on how to lower the risk of lung cancer.

Tobacco smoking has been pointed out as one of the leading causes of lung cancer, according to Dr. Helen Zorbas who is the CEO of Cancer Australia. One of the best ways to reduce the risk for lung cancer is to stop smoking. Smokers who quit the habit can lower their risk from 30 to 50 percent after about ten years from quitting. If these smokers can kick the habit prior to hitting the age of 50, then they can reach the survival level like that of someone who did not ever smoke a single cigarette.

Aside from tobacco smoking, passive smoking also causes lung cancer. The best way to reduce the risk for lung cancer most especially for non smokers is to be in a non smoking environment. Aim to lobby for making your residence and workplace a non smoking zone. This way, non smokers will not be exposed to harmful chemicals from cigarettes. In the same light, people should also stay away from radon, asbestos, and other carcinogenic chemicals that can cause lung cancer.

The World Health Organization also recommends a healthy diet to combat any possible causes of lung cancer. Each person should have at least four cups of vegetables and fruits that are rich in phytochemicals. Examples of these are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and bok choy. A healthy diet was shown to reduce the incidence of lung cancer by 12 percent. This method may be a long shot for some as its effects in fighting lung cancer may take decades before seeing its full effect.

Lastly, Cancer Research UK is recommending that you get to know your family’s history of lung cancer so that you can volunteer yourself for tests for early detection and treatment.