Lung cancer is usually blamed on smoking, but a significant number of instances occur in non-smokers who have never seen the inside of a cigarette package. The American Cancer Society says that about 20% of lung cancer deaths occur in non-smokers. This leads us to ask: why are these non-smokers getting lung cancer, and why are they at risk?

Though smoking is still the primary cause of lung cancer, studies indicate that environmental, genetic, and occupational factors combined are also responsible for the development of the disease. The MD Anderson Cancer Center and other research facilities throughout the U.S. have been conducting intensive research into why lung cancer affects non-smokers and how the disease differs from smoking-induced cancer.

The majority of lung cancers that are diagnosed in never-smokers are non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), accounting for approximately 85% of all lung cancers. Of these, adenocarcinoma is the most frequent subtype among non-smokers. Scientists have found that close to 30% of NSCLC occurrences among non-smokers are caused by genetic mutations, which can be treated with targeted therapies.

Key Genetic Factors in Non-Smoker Lung Cancer Cases

Lung cancer in people who have never smoked is typically associated with particular genetic mutations. Two of the most important biomarkers are:

EGFR mutations: EGFR mutations account for approximately 10-15% of lung cancer in the U.S. and are more frequently found in non-smokers, especially in females and Asian patients.

ALK gene rearrangements: This mutation is found in approximately 5% of lung cancers and can be treated with certain drugs that inhibit the activity of the abnormal protein.

These genetic determinants suggest that non-smoker lung cancer patients could be more responsive to targeted therapies, bringing new hope to treatment possibilities.

Environmental and Occupational Risk Factors

Even though one does not smoke, most are exposed to substances that cause lung cancer. There are various environmental and occupational causes that have been discovered:

Radon Exposure

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that emanates from the ground and can build up in houses, particularly in basements and poorly ventilated areas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon exposure leads to approximately 3,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Research has established a strong link between elevated radon levels and lung cancer among non-smokers.

Why is Secondhand Smoke A Significant Threat?

Even for someone who never smoked, years of exposure to secondhand smoke greatly raises lung cancer risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are an estimated 7,000 deaths from lung cancer every year due to secondhand smoke. Smokers' partners, family members, and colleagues are particularly susceptible to breathing in dangerous chemicals from cigarette smoke.

Air Pollution and Industrial Toxins

Long-term exposure to air pollution, such as vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions, has been associated with a higher risk of lung cancer. A 2013 report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) identified outdoor air pollution as a carcinogen, highlighting the contribution of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) to lung cancer.

Exposure to these substances in the workplace, such as asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust, also puts one at greater risk. People who work in construction, manufacturing, and mining are especially susceptible to inhaling these cancer-causing particles.

Family History and Genetic Susceptibility

Family history of lung cancer in non-smokers also places them at greater risk, with a possible genetic component. In case a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) has developed lung cancer, especially at a younger age, the risk factor for developing the disease is elevated. This also points to inherited genetic mutations potentially making some individuals more vulnerable to lung cancer.

Identifying Symptoms

Symptoms of lung cancer are usually mild and may be confused with other illnesses, so it is frequently diagnosed late in the majority of instances. The usual symptoms are:

• Chronic cough or increasing cough over time
• Sputum containing blood
• Chest discomfort or pain
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Weight loss without an obvious cause
• Weakness
• Hoarseness or swallowing difficulty
• Recurrent infections of the lungs

Since non-smokers usually do not see themselves as being at risk for lung cancer, they might postpone medical care until the disease advances to a severe stage before being diagnosed.

Can You Lower Your Risk of Lung Cancer?

Though some risk factors, like heredity, cannot be modified, there are a number of proactive measures that you can do to reduce your risk of lung cancer. One of the most significant steps is to have your home tested for radon, as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highly recommends, particularly in high-radon areas. Long-term exposure to this odorless gas can cause a high risk of lung cancer, and early detection is vital. Also, staying away from secondhand smoke is crucial. If you reside with a smoker, persuading them to quit or having proper ventilation to reduce exposure can safeguard your lungs. Lessening exposure to toxic pollutants is another crucial step—sitting indoors with air purifiers and using protective masks while working in risk-prone places can reduce the inhalation of harmful chemicals.

Lastly, a healthy way of life plays an important part in lung health. A healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly, and refraining from known carcinogens can make your immune system strong and help lung function in general. Using all these preventive steps can contribute significantly to lowering the risk of lung cancer and improving respiratory health. Who is Eligible for Lung Cancer Screening?

Today the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force screens for lung cancer only in individuals with a smoking history. What this implies is that non-smokers are usually not screened, except when there are symptoms or other risk indicators. There is an argument though that those who have a large family history and high exposure to radon are also worth early screening.

Lung cancer is not solely a disease of smokers. With increasing incidence in non-smokers, it's essential to know about different risk factors and take preventive action wherever feasible. If you have persistent symptoms, see your doctor to eliminate any possible serious conditions. Early detection is the strongest defense against lung cancer, irrespective of smoking status.

During times of crisis or heightened emotions, we seek our elders for some clarity as well as for someone who will keep a cool head during these times. We are always told that wisdom and ways to handle difficult situations are things we gain as we age and a new study shows that this fact holds a lot of truth. We all remember our grandparents and how sweet, calm and patient they were, no matter how many times we messed up or did things that would anger our parents.

A new study suggests this isn't just a personality trait but a skill that improves with age, particularly for women. Research published in the journal Menopause indicates that as women age, especially from middle age onward, their ability to manage anger significantly improves.

Anger Intensifies, Expression Softens

Here's the interesting part: this doesn't mean older women feel less angry. In fact, the study, which looked at information from 271 women over many years, found that they actually reported feeling angrier more often and more strongly as they aged. But here's the key difference: they were much less likely to show their anger outwardly or act in a hostile way. So, even though the feeling of anger might be stronger, their ability to control how they react becomes much better. They might feel it, but they don't necessarily let it burst out.

Why the Shift?

So, why does this happen? Researchers have a couple of ideas. One thought is that as women reach middle age and go through menopause, they often feel a stronger sense of "generativity." This basically means they feel a deep need to help and care for others, especially younger generations, and to make a positive impact on the world. This feeling might help them become more emotionally mature and integrated.

Another idea is that women might become more strategic about how they express their anger. Instead of just lashing out, they might choose more positive and constructive ways to deal with their feelings, which can actually help improve their relationships. When women use anger in these more positive ways, they often feel more empowered and have better self-esteem.

Knowing When Your Anger Is A Problem

According to the American Psychological Association, anger management aims to lessen both the strong feelings of anger you experience and the physical reactions it triggers in your body. While you can't always avoid or change the people or situations that make you angry, you can learn to control how you react.

There are tests that can measure how intense your anger is, how often you get angry, and how well you handle it. However, if you're struggling with anger, you probably already know it. If your actions feel out of control or frightening to you, it might be time to seek help in finding healthier ways to deal with this powerful emotion.

What Does This Study Imply?

Experts point out that the changes women experience during menopause can really affect their mental well-being, both in their personal lives and at work. She explains that shifts in hormones during times like postpartum (after childbirth), during monthly periods, and around menopause can lead to strong mood swings, including feelings of anger and hostility. She stresses that if women are informed about these possible mood changes and get help managing their symptoms, it can make a huge difference in their overall quality of life and health. The study's authors also believe we need more research to understand women's anger in everyday situations, which can give us even more helpful tips on managing emotions and anger.

People have the ability to come up with great, unique, and different ideas from the rest. However, we have all had days when brainstorming doesn't fruit any good ideas for us. So, the natural next step is to look on the internet. However, doing this is not only ruining your thought process but it is also killing your creativity. A new study shows that if you are looking for new ideas, you should stay off the internet.

Using the internet to find new ideas during group brainstorming sessions might actually stifle creativity, according to a study published on June 30 in the journal Memory & Cognition. Researchers found that internet searches can hinder a group's ability to generate truly original ideas

Internet's Impact on Creativity

The internet isn't making us less intelligent, but we might not be using it in the best ways for brainstorming. Researchers believe the internet can limit creativity because of something called "fixation effects." This means that when people see ideas from a search engine, they tend to think of other similar ideas. At the same time, these suggestions can block them from coming up with completely new or different answers.

For example, if someone is trying to list things you might "spread" and sees "butter" or "jam" from the internet, they're more likely to think of other foods like "cream cheese." They'll be less likely to think of non-food ideas, like "disease" or "rumors."

What the Study Showed

In a lab experiment with nearly 250 people, researchers looked at how groups came up with new uses for umbrellas and shields. They knew that there are many alternative uses for umbrellas online, but very few for shields.

Groups that had internet access struggled to find new ideas for umbrellas. This was probably because seeing so many suggestions online narrowed their thinking. On the other hand, because there weren't many pre-existing ideas for shields, groups had more room for their creativity to grow. This study provides the first proof that internet searches can cause this "fixation effect.

The results also showed that people who didn't use the internet were more imaginative. Those who used Google often came up with the same common answers, sometimes even in the same order. People who didn't use Google came up with more unique answers.

Smarter Ways to Brainstorm

However, researchers don't think we should avoid the internet when brainstorming. Instead, we need to find better ways to use search engines to boost our creative thinking.

The hope is to understand how human thought interacts with technology so we can get the most out of the internet while reducing its downsides. For instance, doing some brainstorming without the internet first could help avoid getting stuck on existing ideas. The goal isn't to give up the power of online search, but to learn how to use it more effectively.

Dealing With Creativity Blocks

Creativity blocks are normal, especially for people like designers writers as well as artists. However, due to the vagueness of this process, it is difficult to know when it will end or how to go about it. Here are some ways you can deal with it.

Identify the Root Cause

Pinpoint the core reason for your creative block. Is it a lack of inspiration, confidence, or clarity? Understanding if it's personal, professional, or environmental, and whether it's temporary or chronic, helps you address the issue effectively.

Break the Routine

Combat creative blocks by changing your routine. Alter your environment, schedule, tools, or methods to introduce new stimuli. Working differently sparks fresh ideas, refreshes your mind, and prevents boredom from stifling creativity.

Do Something Else

Sometimes, stepping away is best. Relax, recharge, and distract yourself from creative frustration. Engage in unrelated activities like reading, listening, or exercising. This helps you return with a fresh perspective, but avoid procrastination.

Experiment and Iterate

Overcome blocks by experimenting and iterating. Try different ideas and variations without attachment to perfection. Sketch, prototype, and revise to explore creative potential, discover new possibilities, and learn from any mistakes along the way.

Embrace the Challenge

Accept creative block as a natural part of the process, not a failure. Embracing it helps overcome fear and self-doubt, motivating continued progress. Acknowledge, reframe, learn, and even celebrate the challenge to improve skills.

In 1998, a mysterious and deadly illness emerged among pig farmers in Malaysia, later identified as the Nipah virus (NiV), a bat-borne zoonotic pathogen from the Henipavirus genus. It caused severe respiratory illness and encephalitis, claiming over 100 lives and decimating the pig farming industry.

The virus reappeared in Singapore in 1999. Over time, it was clear that the outbreaks weren’t isolated events. NiV had entrenched itself across regions with certain ecological and socio-cultural conditions, particularly in South and Southeast Asia.

Today, NiV is considered one of the World Health Organization's priority diseases for research and development due to its high case fatality rate (up to 100% in some outbreaks), human-to-human transmissibility, and pandemic potential.

25 Years, 754 Cases, 435 Deaths

As of May 2024, there have been 754 confirmed human Nipah cases reported across five countries—Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines—with 435 deaths, averaging a staggering case fatality rate (CFR) of 58%

.

The most affected countries are:

• Bangladesh: 341 cases, 241 deaths (CFR 71%)
• India: 102 cases, 74 deaths (CFR 73%)
• Malaysia: 283 cases, 109 deaths (CFR 39%)
• Philippines: 17 cases, 9 deaths (CFR 53%)
• Singapore: 11 cases, 1 death (CFR 9%)

Unlike Malaysia and the Philippines, where the virus spread through intermediate hosts like pigs or horses, cases in Bangladesh and India have been directly linked to bat-to-human transmission—primarily through the consumption of raw date palm sap contaminated by infected fruit bats.

Why Does Nipah Still Exist?

Fruit Bats Are Permanent Reservoirs

Nipah virus resides in Pteropus fruit bats, which are widely distributed across Asia, the Pacific Islands, and even parts of Africa. These bats are natural carriers and do not show symptoms of the disease, making them difficult to monitor or control. NiV RNA and antibodies have been found in bats in at least 15 countries, including India, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Ghana.

Human Habits Enable Spillover

In regions like Bangladesh, seasonal practices such as collecting fresh date palm sap—a delicacy also consumed raw—provide a direct interface between humans and bat secretions. The virus can contaminate sap through bat saliva or urine.

Moreover, in the Philippines, outbreaks were traced to the butchering and consumption of sick horses. These recurring interactions with potential intermediary hosts keep the door open for viral spillover.

Human-to-Human Transmission

Although not as contagious as influenza or COVID-19, human-to-human transmission of NiV has been confirmed in Bangladesh and India. Some outbreaks have shown vertical transmission (mother to child) and transmission among caregivers and family members.

This capability increases the risk of community spread, particularly in regions with delayed detection or inadequate isolation infrastructure.

No Vaccine, No Cure

Despite being on the global priority pathogen list, there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for Nipah. Management remains supportive, relying on early diagnosis and intensive care. In resource-constrained regions, especially rural South Asia, this becomes a daunting challenge.

Bangladesh and India: The Epicenters of Ongoing Risk

Since 2001, both Bangladesh and India have reported almost every year either isolated or clustered cases of Nipah virus, particularly in Kerala and West Bengal (India) and multiple districts in Bangladesh.

Notably, 2023 saw Bangladesh’s highest ever reported NiV cases and deaths. In 2024, the country reported two cases—both of which were fatal, marking a 100% CFR for the year

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Efforts in both countries have been ramped up. Surveillance now includes:

• Testing date palm sap for contamination
• Educating communities to avoid raw consumption
• Quarantining suspected cases
• Expanding diagnostic labs and outbreak response teams

Still, challenges remain due to cultural habits, lack of rapid testing in rural areas, and public fatigue around health advisories.

The Risk of a Wider Spread

Though human NiV cases have so far been reported only in Asia, the potential for global spread exists. Several factors fuel this concern:

Genetic adaptability: The virus has shown potential for genetic reassortment, raising fears of a more transmissible strain.

Broad geographic distribution: NiV-carrying bats exist far beyond the current outbreak zones.

Environmental change: Deforestation, land-use changes, and climate shifts are bringing bats closer to human habitats.

Global travel and trade: A delayed diagnosis in one international traveler could enable the virus to spread outside endemic zones.

What Needs to Be Done?

A Global “One Health” Approach

The study by Sakirul Khan et al. emphasizes the urgent need for multisectoral collaboration—involving human health, veterinary, and environmental sciences—to monitor and prevent outbreaks

. A “One World, One Health” model is key.

Steps must include:

• Strengthening high-containment laboratories in risk zones
• Continuous monitoring of viral genetic changes
• Developing and testing vaccines and antiviral therapies
• Investing in bat ecology research and habitat protection
• Community engagement and behavioral change strategies