Can lung cancer cells infect others?

Lung cancer cells are not contagious to others. Unlike colds or flu, cancer is not transmitted from person to person through air, droplets or contact. This is because the occurrence of cancer is related to individual gene mutations and the internal environment of the body, rather than exogenous pathogens.

Lung cancer is a disease caused by abnormal proliferation of lung cells, which is usually related to many factors such as long-term smoking, air pollution, occupational exposure and genetic susceptibility. Although cancer cells are invasive, they grow in the patient's own body tissues and are monitored by the patient's immune system. Once they enter the body of another person, they are usually quickly cleared by the immune system. Even if you are in close contact with a patient, share items or food, you will not be "infected" with cancer cells.

It is worth noting that some specific viruses (such as human papillomavirus, hepatitis B or C virus, etc.) may indirectly increase the risk of certain cancers, but this has nothing to do with lung cancer. However, long-term inhalation of secondhand smoke or exposure to harmful gases will increase the risk of lung cancer, which is a "shared environmental risk." Therefore, relatives living with lung cancer patients can pay attention to the daily air quality and take necessary measures to protect their own health.

In order to reduce the probability of illness, people should not only quit smoking, but also avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and have regular physical examinations, especially those working in high-risk environments. If you are concerned about health risks or find any early signs similar to lung cancer (such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, weight loss, etc.), it is recommended to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible for a comprehensive examination.