Lung Cancer: Myths, Facts, and What You Really Need to Know
Watch our Lung Cancer MythBuster Video Here
Busting common misconceptions with expert insight from Dr. Santos, our lung cancer specialist at The Cancer & Hematology Centers.
When it comes to lung cancer, misinformation can delay diagnosis, prevent people from getting screened, or even discourage life-saving treatment. We sat down with one of our expert oncologists who specializes in lung cancer to debunk some of the most common myths—and share the facts that could make a difference.
“Only smokers get lung cancer.”
MYTH: While smoking is the leading risk factor, non-smokers can and do get lung cancer. In fact, about 10–20% of people diagnosed with lung cancer in the U.S. have never smoked. Other risk factors include secondhand smoke, vaping, exposure to radon or asbestos, air pollution, and certain genetic mutations. No one is immune.
“If I don’t have symptoms, I don’t have lung cancer.”
MYTH: Many people with lung cancer don’t experience symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear—like a persistent cough, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss—the disease may already be advanced. That’s why early detection through screening is so important, especially for those at higher risk.
“Lung cancer is always fatal.”
MYTH: This myth is outdated. While lung cancer is a serious disease, survival rates are improving—especially when it’s found early. Advances in screening, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy have made some forms of lung cancer treatable and, in many cases, manageable as a chronic condition.
“There’s no point in screening unless you already feel sick.”
MYTH: Lung cancer screening is not based on symptoms—it’s about catching the disease before they start. Low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer at earlier stages, when it’s most treatable. If you’re over the age of 50 with a significant smoking history (even if you’ve quit), talk to your doctor about whether screening is right for you.
“Vaping is a safe alternative and doesn’t cause lung cancer.”
MYTH: Vaping is not risk-free. While research is still ongoing, early studies suggest that vaping can damage lung tissue, affect immune function, and potentially increase the risk of cancer. The safest option remains the same: don’t inhale substances into your lungs at all.
“If I’ve quit smoking, I don’t need to worry anymore.”
MYTH: Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health—but some risk for lung cancer remains, especially if you smoked for many years. The good news? Your risk does go down over time after quitting, and you may still qualify for screening, depending on your history.
“Lung cancer treatment hasn’t changed in decades.”
MYTH: Lung cancer treatments have made tremendous progress in recent years. From targeted therapies based on genetic mutations to immunotherapy that activates your own immune system to fight the cancer, treatments are becoming more personalized and more effective than ever before.
“Is it called lung cancer when other cancers spread to the lungs?”
MYTH: No—when another cancer spreads to the lungs, it’s called metastatic cancer, and it keeps the name of its origin. For example, breast cancer that spreads to the lungs is still breast cancer. True lung cancer starts in the lung tissue itself.
The Bottom Line
Lung cancer doesn’t look the same for everyone—and it doesn’t only happen to smokers/vapers. Early detection through screening can save lives, and innovative treatments are giving patients more options and better outcomes. This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to know your risk and have the conversation that could make all the difference.