Although exposure to certain chemicals (radon and asbestos for instance) can lead to the development of lung cancer, small cell lung cancers occur mostly among smokers. In fact, it is rare to find a small cell lung cancer victim who does not have a history of smoking. The disease represents 15% to 20% of lung cancers; its average prevalence is estimated at 1 / 20 000.
Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in men and women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 million people are diagnosed with lung cancer every year around the world. In the United States alone, it is estimated that 116,090 men and 103,350 women (219,440 men and women) were diagnosed with lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer) in 2009; 159,390 people died of it. Non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer combined (lung cancer) are the most frequent malignancy in males and the fifth most common cancer in females.
The incidence of lung cancer – including small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer – varies with age. From 2002-2006, the median age at diagnosis for cancer of the lung and bronchus was 71 years of age. The percentages and ages of people diagnosed lung cancer were approximately:
- 0.0% under age 20;
- 0.2% between 20 and 34;
- 1.8% between 35 and 44;
- 8.8% between 45 and 54;
- 21.0% between 55 and 64;
- 31.4% between 65 and 74;
- 29.1% between 75 and 84;
- 7.7% 85+ years of age.
Small Cell Lung Cancer Overview Small Cell Lung Cancer Causes