January 21, 2025

Signs of Lung Cancer In Women

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Lung Cancer
Cancer
Philip J. Goodman

Legally Reviewed and Fact Checked by: Philip J. Goodman , Of Counsel

Signs of Lung Cancer In Women

When it comes to lung cancer, men and women share the same risk factors as well as many of the same symptoms. However, there are differences between genders in:

  • The kinds of lung cancer they are more likely to develop
  • How they are affected by certain risks, such as cigarette smoking

If you think you may have symptoms of lung cancer, see a doctor who has the expertise and resources to provide you with an accurate diagnosis. If you believe your lung cancer is the result of asbestos exposure (even through secondhand exposure), contact the experts at Serling & Abramson, P.C. We’ll provide a free review of your case and let you know if you may be eligible to pursue damages.

Type of lung cancer women typically develop

While both genders are at risk for lung cancer, research has shown that women are more likely to develop adenocarcinoma, a type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Adenocarcinoma begins in the glandular cells that line the lungs and is commonly located in the outer areas of the lungs. This type of cancer often grows more slowly than other forms, which may contribute to its delayed detection.

In contrast, men are more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma, another form of NSCLC typically found in the central airways of the lungs. Squamous cell carcinoma is more closely linked to smoking and tends to produce earlier and more noticeable symptoms, such as coughing up blood, making it easier to diagnose compared to adenocarcinoma.

Interestingly, adenocarcinoma is the most common form of lung cancer among non-smokers, and women, particularly younger women, are overrepresented in this group. Researchers suggest that hormonal differences, such as the presence of estrogen receptors in the lungs, may play a role in the development of adenocarcinoma in women. The slower progression of this cancer makes regular health screenings and monitoring critical for early diagnosis and better outcomes.

Signs of lung cancer in women

The symptoms of lung cancer can be subtle and vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Women who develop adenocarcinoma may initially experience nonspecific symptoms that are often mistaken for other less serious conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis. Some common signs of lung cancer in women include:

  • Shortness of breath: Often one of the earliest symptoms, shortness of breath may occur even during routine activities and can worsen over time.
  • Persistent cough: A cough that doesn’t go away, gets worse, or changes in character (such as becoming deeper or more hoarse) can be an early warning sign.
  • Coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm: While alarming, this symptom is a key indicator that something serious may be wrong in the lungs.
  • Chest pain: Women may experience discomfort or tightness in the chest, which can intensify during coughing or deep breaths.
  • Wheezing and hoarseness: These symptoms can result from blocked or narrowed airways caused by the tumor.
  • Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite: These are common signs of advanced lung cancer and warrant immediate medical attention.
  • Recurring respiratory infections: Persistent cases of bronchitis or pneumonia that fail to improve with treatment may indicate underlying lung cancer.

Because adenocarcinoma grows in the periphery of the lungs, symptoms like chest pain may not emerge until the disease is advanced. This underscores the importance of reporting persistent or unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider for timely diagnosis.

Is lung cancer painful?

Yes, lung cancer can cause pain, but its intensity and location depend on several factors, including the stage of the disease and the location of the tumor.

For example:

  • Chest pain: Tumors growing near the lining of the lungs (the pleura) or pressing against nerves can cause persistent or sharp pain in the chest. This pain often worsens during coughing, laughing, or deep breathing.
  • Bone pain: If lung cancer spreads (metastasizes) to the bones, patients may experience severe pain in the spine, ribs, or pelvis.
  • Nerve pain: Tumors pressing on nearby nerves, such as those affecting the shoulder or arm (a condition known as Pancoast syndrome), can cause localized pain and weakness.
  • Abdominal pain: In rare cases, peritoneal mesothelioma, a form of cancer associated with asbestos exposure, can cause significant abdominal discomfort.

It is important to note that pain management is a critical part of lung cancer treatment. Physicians may recommend medications, radiation therapy, or nerve blocks to alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life for patients experiencing pain due to their cancer.

Why more women are developing lung cancer

According to a 2020 study in the International Journal of Cancer, women between the ages of 30-49 are being diagnosed with lung cancer at higher rates than men. While lung cancer diagnoses are generally decreasing across the population, the rates for women are declining at a slower pace compared to men.

Historically, lung cancer rates in men have been higher because they were more likely to be smokers. The study found that women have higher rates of developing adenocarcinoma, which can be found in non-smokers.

Some factors that may explain why lung cancer rates have risen for younger women:

  • Filtered cigarettes. More women started smoking during years when filtered cigarettes were most common. These distribute tobacco smoke to the outer parts of the lungs, increasing the risk of adenocarcinoma lung cancer
  • Genetics. Women may simply have different genetic risk factors for lung cancer than men — for instance, not being able to repair damaged DNA or possessing abnormal genes related to cancer development
  • Less noticeable symptoms. Adenocarcinoma grows more slowly than other lung cancers and can be harder to detect. This can result in less prominent symptoms such as chest pain and coughing which can be mistaken for other conditions like asthma or bronchitis, making early detection less likely

Other sources of exposure that lead to lung cancer

While smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, other sources of exposure also play a significant role in increasing the risk of developing this disease. Among these, environmental and occupational exposures stand out as critical factors, often overlooked but just as dangerous. Here’s a closer look at some key sources of exposure that contribute to lung cancer:

Secondhand Smoke

Exposure to secondhand smoke, also known as environmental tobacco smoke, significantly increases the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers. According to the American Cancer Society, non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke at home or work are 20-30% more likely to develop lung cancer. This exposure occurs when individuals inhale the smoke exhaled by smokers or emitted from burning cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Even short-term exposure can harm lung cells and trigger changes that may eventually lead to cancer.

Air Pollution

Air pollution, especially in urban and industrialized areas, is a major contributor to lung cancer. Particulate matter (PM2.5), which includes tiny particles from vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and combustion of fossil fuels, can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause inflammation and damage to lung tissues. Long-term exposure to polluted air has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, with the World Health Organization (WHO) classifying outdoor air pollution as a Group 1 human carcinogen, the same category as asbestos and tobacco smoke.

Asbestos and Occupational Exposures

Asbestos exposure is a well-established risk factor for both lung cancer and mesothelioma. Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive repair, and chemical manufacturing are particularly vulnerable. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibers are released into the air, where they can be inhaled and lodged in the lungs. Over time, these fibers cause inflammation and cellular damage, increasing the risk of cancer.

Additionally, exposure to other occupational hazards, such as arsenic, chromium, nickel, and diesel exhaust, has been linked to an elevated risk of lung cancer. Workers in mining, metalworking, and oil refining industries often face prolonged exposure to these carcinogens.

Secondary or “Take-Home Exposures”

Even though a woman did not directly work with asbestos-containing materials, she is at risk from handling the clothes of others whose job duties exposed them. For example, women who laundered family members’ clothes that had asbestos fibers are at greater risk for mesothelioma. Shaking out asbestos-laden clothes creates fibers that can be inhaled into their lungs

Radon Gas

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in foundations and accumulate to harmful levels. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for about 21,000 deaths annually. The risk is higher for individuals exposed to both radon and tobacco smoke.

Chemicals in the Workplace

Workplace exposure to certain hazardous chemicals has been shown to increase the risk of lung cancer. These include substances like:

  • Silica dust: Found in industries such as construction, mining, and glass manufacturing.
  • Beryllium: Used in aerospace, electronics, and metalworking.
  • Vinyl chloride: Found in the production of plastics and resins.
  • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): Emitted from burning coal, oil, and gas.

Repeated exposure to these chemicals without proper protective measures can result in long-term damage to lung tissue and an increased likelihood of developing cancer.

Indoor Pollutants

Indoor air pollution from sources like coal or wood-burning stoves, open fireplaces, and poorly ventilated cooking areas can contribute to lung cancer risk, particularly in low-income and rural households. Smoke and fumes from burning biomass release harmful particles and chemicals that irritate and damage lung tissue over time.

Environmental Toxins

Prolonged exposure to toxins such as pesticides, herbicides, and industrial solvents can also elevate the risk of lung cancer. For example, people living near industrial sites, waste dumps, or chemical plants may be at a higher risk due to chronic exposure to airborne toxins.

Protecting Yourself from Other Sources of Exposure

While some sources of lung cancer exposure, like radon and air pollution, are difficult to avoid completely, taking the following steps can help reduce your risk:

  • Test for radon in your home and install mitigation systems if necessary.
  • Wear protective gear and follow safety protocols if you work in high-risk industries.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when using stoves, fireplaces, or chemicals indoors.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke by advocating for smoke-free environments.
  • Monitor air quality in your area and limit outdoor activities on days with high pollution levels.

By understanding these additional sources of exposure and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing lung cancer.

Lung cancer treatment and survival rates for women

Treatment plans for lung cancer do not greatly vary between men and women. They usually involve at least two of these procedures:

  • Surgery to remove the cancer
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

After undergoing treatment, women who develop adenocarcinoma typically live longer than men, regardless of whether they were smokers.

Helping women who have been afflicted

More research is being done to determine why lung cancer affects women differently. However, if you’ve been diagnosed with lung cancer, time is a luxury you may not have — which is why you should speak to an attorney. Serling & Abramson, P.C. are the Michigan experts in litigating and settling cases relating to asbestos-caused diseases. One of our attorneys will speak with you about your asbestos history and help determine when and where you may have come into contact with this dangerous mineral, using our database we’ve assembled from helping thousands of previous clients.

Don’t wait to get the assistance you deserve — contact Serling & Abramson, P.C. for a free case review of your case today.