World Lung Cancer Day 2025: Debunking myths, spreading awareness, and highlighting hope

Observed every year on August 1, World Lung Cancer Day serves as a powerful reminder to raise awareness about one of the world’s deadliest cancers. Despite being a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, lung cancer remains deeply misunderstood, with myths and misinformation continuing to cloud public perception.

Contrary to popular belief, lung cancer doesn’t just affect smokers or the elderly. In reality, it can strike anyone—young or old, smokers or non-smokers, men or women. Addressing these myths and educating people on real risk factors, prevention, early detection, and treatment options is vital to saving lives.

Myth 1: Only smokers get lung cancer

While tobacco use remains the leading cause of lung cancer, it is not the only risk factor. Exposure to air pollution, second-hand smoke, asbestos, and toxic gases like radon can also significantly increase one’s risk. Even non-smokers can develop lung cancer due to prolonged exposure to these environmental triggers.

Myth 2: E-cigarettes, cigars, and low-tar cigarettes are safer

Many assume alternatives like e-cigarettes or low-tar cigarettes are safer options. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting the idea that any form of tobacco is less harmful. All types of tobacco carry a significant risk of causing lung cancer.

Myth 3: Lung cancer only affects older men

Though lung cancer is more commonly seen in men over 65, younger people and women are not immune. Genetics, environmental exposures, and changing lifestyles are contributing to rising cases among younger age groups and females.

Myth 4: There’s no way to screen for lung cancer

This is a dangerous misconception. A low-dose CT scan is now a validated screening method for individuals aged 55 to 74 with a significant history of tobacco exposure. Early detection through screening can drastically improve survival outcomes by catching the disease at a more treatable stage.

Myth 5: Lung cancer treatment is worse than the disease

Thanks to advancements in precision medicine, lung cancer treatment has evolved significantly. It's no longer a one-size-fits-all approach. In about 30% of cases, driver mutations can be identified, allowing doctors to offer targeted therapies that focus only on cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. This means even elderly or frail patients can now receive effective treatment with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Myth 6: Advanced treatments are unaffordable

While newer treatments such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy are often seen as expensive, many are now widely available at major cancer centers across India. Moreover, several patient assistance programs have made these cutting-edge treatments more accessible and affordable.

The takeaway

Dr. N Aditya Murali, Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru, emphasizes that spreading accurate information and encouraging open discussions about lung cancer is critical. “The more we talk about the real facts, the better chance we have at catching it early and saving lives,” he says.