# Explain how smoking cigarettes can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 5.3 Non-communicable diseases · Explain · 4 marks

> Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United Kingdom. Research consistently shows that cigarette smokers are significantly more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Cigarette smoke contains carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals / tar)
2. Carcinogens cause mutations in the DNA of lung cells
3. Mutations cause uncontrolled cell division / growth
4. This results in the formation of a tumour / cancer

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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