COLUMBUS, Ohio - The typical patient diagnosed with lung cancer—an older male smoker—is becoming less common, according to experts.

Researchers at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute are finding that a growing number of lung cancer diagnoses are being made in people who have never smoked, and these patients are mostly young women.

Nearly 20% of all new lung cancer diagnoses in the United States occur in non-smokers. Physicians at the OSUCCC say environmental factors and genetics are the primary causes behind this shift.

“In the past, lung cancer was nearly always defined by a history of smoking,” said Dr. Ioana Baiu, a surgeon at the OSUCCC. “The number one cause for lung cancer in non-smokers is radon exposure. Air pollution and secondhand smoke have also been implicated.”

Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless gas that can seep into homes through the foundation. Doctors stress that testing homes for radon levels is an important way to reduce a person’s risk.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that between 20,000 and 40,000 lung cancers each year in the U.S. happen in people who have never smoked or who smoked fewer than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime.

Dr. Baiu advises people to pay attention to their bodies and be proactive about their health. She noted that symptoms like an unexplained or lingering cough, chest discomfort, fatigue, or shortness of breath should not be ignored.

Lung cancer remains the cause of the most cancer deaths in the U.S. for both men and women. Screening is seen as a crucial tool for early detection.

Dr. Baiu is advocating for screening guidelines to be broadened to include younger patients and non-smokers. Current guidelines generally recommend annual screening for people between 50 and 80 who are current or recent heavy smokers.

“Lung cancer doesn't discriminate, and it's important to educate yourself and listen to your body,” she said.

The timing of the diagnosis is critical. Dr. Baiu explained that if the cancer is found early, it can often be removed surgically without the need for additional treatment. However, if the disease has progressed and spread, patients will typically need additional therapy alongside surgery.

Individuals who have concerns about their risk or who experience persistent symptoms should consult with their doctor to determine if screening is appropriate.