Lung Cancer in the U.S.: Leading Cause of Cancer Death

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States. In 2021, an estimated 130,180 deaths occurred. Incidence is higher in men, and risk rises sharply with age. Cigarette smoking accounts for ~80–90% of cases; other risk factors include secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos, air pollution, and occupational carcinogens. Early detection via low-dose CT screening in high-risk adults reduces mortality.