What is the difference between lung cancer and emphysema?
Lung cancer is not the same thing as COPD. Lung cancer is a condition characterized by the increase in abnormal lung cells and the decrease in the cells that normally aid growth of lung tissues.
Lung cancer can develop as a secondary condition and spread to other organs in the body. Studies show that over 90% of lung cancers are caused by cigarette smoking. Aside from cigarettes, inhaling second-hand smoke can also destroy the lungs. Toxins such as environmental pollutants and inhaled chemicals can also damage the lungs. Any damage to the lung cells that occurs due to conditions such as COPD can lead to the development of cancerous cells in the lungs.