Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States and one of the deadliest. Unfortunately, where you live can significantly impact your risk of developing lung cancer since your environment, lifestyle, and access to cancer care varies widely from place to place. Here are the U.S. cities with the highest lung cancer rates and why they’ve earned this unfortunate distinction:
1. Louisville, Kentucky
Smoking is also a significant factor in causing lung cancer. Unfortunately, smoking rates in Louisville are higher than the national average, making it even more likely that residents will develop the disease. The city has also been the site of numerous high-profile smoking bans in recent years, which is a positive step towards reducing the number of people who smoke in the city.
2. Cheyenne, Wyoming
Living in Cheyenne Wyoming can increase your risk of lung cancer due to the high levels of air pollution. The City of Cheyenne has consistently had some of the worst air quality ratings in the nation, with particulate matter and ozone levels often exceeding health standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Cheyenne’s air also contains pollutants from nearby coal-fired power plants, airborne dust, and other particles. All these factors contribute to poor air quality in the city, which can cause serious health issues such as lung cancer. Long-term exposure to polluted air has been linked with many health problems, including an increased risk of cancer and other respiratory illnesses. Most cancer trials show that people living in areas with poor air quality have a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer.
3. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
The air quality in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been ranked as one of the worst in the country, making it especially dangerous for those with respiratory problems such as asthma and COPD. The high levels of air pollution also increase the risk of developing lung cancer, as exposure to certain pollutants can lead to an increased risk of developing the disease. Aside from air pollution and smoking, there are other risk factors for lung cancer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. These include exposure to asbestos, radon, and other hazardous substances. Residents must be aware of these risks and take steps to protect themselves, such as having their homes tested for asbestos or installing radon detectors.
4. Corpus Christi, Texas
In Corpus Christi, Texas, the rate of new lung cancer cases is almost double that of the rest of the country due to the combination of poor air quality from industrial sites and lack of access to advanced treatments like lung cancer drugs and clinical trials. This, in combination, has caused the amount of lung cancer cases to spike.
5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Poor air quality from industrial sites and vehicle exhaust, combined with a population of older adults that have had more time to be exposed to dangerous carcinogens, contribute to the high rates of lung cancer in this city. Residents need to know that their medical history, and their habits can significantly increase their risk of developing the disease.
To reduce the risk of developing this deadly disease, people need to be aware of the risk factors in their city and take the necessary steps to reduce their exposure. This includes quitting smoking, reducing air pollution, and learning about clinical trials for new lung cancer drugs.
