Taiwan lung cancer rates rise among non-smoking women

Lung cancer incidence in Taiwan is rising, with a significant shift in patient demographics. Medical experts report that female patients now account for over 50% of new cases. Notably, approximately 90% of these female patients have no history of smoking, challenging the traditional association between lung cancer and tobacco use.

Experts identify environmental exposure as a primary risk factor for non-smokers. Key contributors include indoor air pollution from cooking fumes, volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde from building materials, and potential asbestos exposure. Outdoor air pollution from traffic and industrial sources also remains a critical concern.

To combat this, health officials emphasize the importance of early detection through Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) scans. Since Taiwan implemented a government-funded LDCT screening program in 2022 for high-risk groups, the proportion of patients diagnosed at stage four has dropped from 50% to 7%, while early-stage diagnoses (stages one and two) have increased from 33% to 78%. Experts recommend that individuals aged 50 to 65 who do not qualify for government subsidies consider self-funded LDCT screenings to improve survival rates.