Smoking women: The alarming statistics

MANILA, Philippines - More and more women are dying of lung cancer. According to new statistics released by the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS), of 2,500 (per 100,000 research population) new cases of women with lung cancer monitored, 2,043 patients have died. The higher mortality rate is due to the fact that more females today smoke cigarettes. Unlike breast cancer, lung cancer is detected only during advanced stages.

“Tobacco use is the single most significant lifestyle choice that has increased the incidence of lung cancer,” notes PCS executive director Dr. Rachel Rosario. “This dangerous habit affects not only the smokers but also the people around them. Second-hand smoke is as lethal, and a new study has pointed out that third-hand smoke is also a possible cause of cancer.”

While first-hand smoke is inhaled directly by the smoker and second-hand is the smoke exhaled (and inhaled by others), third-hand smoke is the residue from second-hand smoke.

Some studies on third-hand smoke and its effects reveal that tobacco residue that lingers on surfaces can react with another chemical in the air to form potent carcinogens — chemicals linked to various cancers. When someone smokes in a confined space, the scent lingers for an extended period of time. This indicates the presence of third-hand smoke. Nicotine can persist on those indoor surfaces, such as walls, floors, carpeting, drapes, and furniture for days, weeks, and even months.

Research has also shown that women are approximately 1.5 times more likely to develop lung cancer than men, given the same conditions and the number of cigarettes smoked on a daily basis. Furthermore, the risk for dying of lung cancer is 20 times higher among women who smoke two or more packs of cigarettes per day than among women who do not smoke.

Although smoking is the primary cause of the increase in lung cancer in women, lung cancer is diagnosed in women who have never smoked. Researchers think the following factors may contribute to the development of lung cancer in women who don’t smoke:

• Genetic factors, such as how women’s bodies react to carcinogens (substances that cause cancer).

• Environmental factors, such as exposure to second-hand smoke, radon, and asbestos.

• Hormones, such as estrogen.

The advocacy campaign against cancer is a partnership between the Philippine Cancer Society and the Department of Health. The C-Network is also supported by the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology, Philippine Society of Oncology, and pharmaceutical company Roche. For more information, visit www.cnetwork.org.ph.