Lung nodules are fairly common and many people have them. The vast majority of lung nodules are benign, and only rarely are they malignant.

Causes of lung nodules

Lung nodules are often caused by infections or injuries to the lungs.

In everyday life, smoke, dust, and pollutants are also inhaled into the lungs when you breathe in the air, and the immune cells in the lungs constantly devour these foreign bodies and harmful substances, fighting against them. Over time, nodules or calcified spots can form in the lungs.

Bacteria such as tuberculosis can infect the lungs, and external injuries, such as impacts, can cause trauma to the lungs, where the immune cells or lymph nodes in the lungs will fight against them, and some shadows or marks will form in the lungs, most of which will become nodules and only a very small number will become lung tumors.

Prevention tips

To keep your lungs healthy and avoid lung nodules, you can do the following.

First, stay away from polluted air in your living environment or at work, including

1. Don’t smoke and stay away from second-hand smoke as smoking is one of the major factors harmful to your lungs and can lead to lung diseases including lung cancer;
2. Avoid air pollution (industrial exhaust, car exhaust, indoor air pollution, etc.) and live in a clean air environment both indoors and outdoors;
3. Prevent exposure to dust and other harmful substances at work.

In addition, a strong immune system prevents diseases including lung diseases by fighting external infections and internal abnormal cells. To improve immunity, it is recommended to develop a good mindset and a healthy lifestyle, such as

1. Avoid undesirable habits such as being sulky, depressed, or irritable;
2. Have a regular routine;
3. Have nutritious and balanced diets;
4. Avoid overwork and staying up late;
5. Exercise regularly.

High-risk factors

For people who are considered at high risk of lung nodules, especially malignant lung nodules, regular lung screening is recommended for early detection and treatment of lung diseases. High-risk factors include

1. Over 50 years of age;
2. Have or have had a long history of smoking;
3. Have a personal history of other cancers;
4. have a history of chronic lung diseases such as COPD, diffuse pulmonary fibrosis, tuberculosis, etc;
5. Have a history of exposure to environmental or occupational hazards;
6. Have a family history of cancer, especially lung cancer.