Though 87 percent of lung cancer cases are due to smoking, many of us know of non-smokers who have developed lung cancer.  The sad story of Dana Reaves reminded us that lung cancer is not reserved for those who light up.  Though second-hand smoke raises the risk of those exposed two to three-fold, there are things beyond avoiding smoky restaurants that we can do to lower our risk.  Here are five for starters.

1. Test your home for radon.  Exposure to radon in the home is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and is entirely preventable.  Purchase a radon test kit at your local hardware store (many cost less than $20).  If the level is abnormal, have it repaired.  The EPA, as well as many state health departments can help your find a certified contractor.




2.  If you work with chemicals at work, review the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals you use.  Occupational exposure accounts for around 5 percent of cancer deaths overall.  Asbestos is the most widely publicized (asbestos workers who don't smoke are seven times more likely, and asbestos workers who smoke are 50 to 90 times more likely to develop lung cancer), but several other occupations pose a risk as well. 



3.  Eat an apple a day to help keep the oncologist away.  According to the National Cancer Institute, foods containing flavenoids, such as those found in apples, may reduce the risk of lung cancer by up to 50 percent.



4.  Add collard greens to your diet.  Collard greens are very high in lutein, which has been associated with a decreased risk of developing lung cancer.

5. And, share a cup of green tea with your friends who smoke.  Smokers who drink green tea have decreased oxidative DNA damage, the set-up for cancer.

For more practical information on cancer prevention, visit www.avoidcancernow.com.