H.6.6

Causes: · Inhaling carcinogens can cause lung cancer à tobacco smoke contains many different carcinogens. · Cigarette smoking à smoking is responsible for 83% of all lung cancer deaths. · Atmospheric pollution à workers in certain industries suffer an increased risk, especially mining and metal refining where the metal ores contain radioactive substances //Radon, a radioactive gas released by some rocks, is estimated to cause 12% of deaths//.
 * Lung Cancer**

Effects: · Persistent coughing, coughing up mucous and blood.
 * Recurring pneumonia
 * Smoke irritates the air passages causing them to produce more mucous.
 * The cilia are (temporarily) paralyzed and do not transport mucous to the throat.
 * Smoke also kills macrophages, defensive cells that reside in the respiratory tract and engulf fine particles and microorganisms.
 * The system of cleaning air passages fails and pathogens have a better chance of establishing themselves.
 * Particles remaining in the lungs may contain carcinogens.

//Treatment:// · //By removing part of the entire affected lung, with obvious consequences for gas exchange.//

Causes: · Hereditary · Attacks may be triggered by allergens.
 * Asthma**
 * Ex: pollen, house dust mites, certain foods, etc.

Effects: · During asthma attacks, the muscles in the wall of the bronchi contract excessively, narrowing the bronchi. · Ventilation is a struggle and gas exchange is reduced.

//Symptoms (according to Lily):// · //Tightness in the chest cavity.// · //Wheezing.// · //Gasps for breath//