Priyanka Singh Priyanka Singh Asked 9 months ago

Is lung cancer genetic?

My father's brother passed away from lung cancer, and now my father is very worried because he also smokes. We're wondering if there's a genetic link. Is lung cancer something that can be passed down in families, or is it primarily due to other factors?

5

5 answers

Geeta Shrivastav Geeta Shrivastav Joined May 2026 5 months ago
Most liked

Some types can run in families, but lifestyle and environmental factors play a major role too. Eating a clean diet full of green vegetables and avoiding toxins can help protect our cells. Definitely consult a specialist to understand your family risk.

Arun Varma Arun Varma Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Yes, certain genetic mutations can increase the risk, but you should get a proper genetic counseling session done if you have a family history. Don't guess on your own. A doctor can run specific blood tests to check for hereditary risk factors.

Meena Alva Meena Alva Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

When I was diagnosed, the first thing they did was a biopsy mutation test. My doctor told me mine wasn't hereditary but happened due to a random genetic mutation in my cells. So yes, genetics are involved but it's not always passed down from parents.

Powered by

Consult a pulmonologist

Sanjay Gupta Sanjay Gupta Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

While genetics might play a part, things like smoking and air pollution are much bigger causes. It is best to avoid smoking, use air purifiers if you live in highly polluted cities, and get routine health checkups done annually. It doesn't cost much to be safe.

Rakesh Mehta Rakesh Mehta Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Just like my diabetes has a strong genetic link but is managed by lifestyle, lung cancer can also have genetic links. Keeping your overall metabolic health in check with low sugar and zero smoking is crucial. Always discuss these hereditary risks with your doctor.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.