Prevention

If you smoke, the best way to prevent lung cancer and other serious conditions is to stop smoking as soon as possible.

However long you have been smoking, it's always worth quitting. Every year you do not smoke decreases your risk of getting serious illnesses, such as lung cancer. After 10 years of not smoking, your chances of developing lung cancer falls to half that of someone who smokes.

NHS Smokefree can offer advice and support to help you quit smoking. You can call 0300 123 1044, or visit the website.

A GP or pharmacist can also give you advice about stopping smoking.

A balanced diet

Research suggests that eating a low-fat, high-fibre diet, including at least 5 portions a day of fresh fruit and vegetables and plenty of wholegrains, can reduce your risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer and heart disease.

Find out more about a healthy diet.

Exercise

There's strong evidence to suggest that regular exercise can lower the risk of developing lung cancer and other types of cancer.

Most adults are recommended to do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, plus strength-training exercises on at least 2 days each week.

Find out more about health and fitness.

Page last reviewed: Mon Aug 2022 Next review due: Wed Feb 2020