Have been smoking for 11 years now and went for a physical and doctor sent me for a chest x-ray. When I went back for the results he said I have scarring in my lungs. I asked what could of caused it and he doesn't know exactly. Never really told me anything about my smoking. He said it could be from chemicals, my rheumatoid arthritis and/or smoking.
I am only 29 and am real nervous about this. Lately when I breath I am having a pain in the middle of my back, right behind my lungs. Should I be worried about this as much as I am? Please help

If I were you I would get a second opinion. Maybe there is some blood work they do also. Maybe ask for a biopsy to be done on one of the "scars" just to be safe. If it is cancer, don't freak out. There is a lot of information out there; we are seeking alternative treatments like nutrition, vitamins, herbs, heat/ozone therapy. Good luck to you and stay healthy!

go to a pulmenologist/ and or ask for a followup with a catscan, if its just scarring it could be a million things I just wouldn't take than answer and expecially based on a chest xray they are not that definitive

Scarring can be caused by loads of things, an infection such a tuberculosis, etc, most importantly stop smoking......There is no point sitting there worrying with a *** in your mouth....this has frightened you and you should give up for your future health as smoking does cause cancer....read the box...Hopefully you wont develope cancer....you have a much better chance if you give up.....
I know some people get lung cancer without ever smoking, but why give the disease a chance, put yourself first and be healthy....take care JanieB

Thank you JanieB. You are absolutely right!! I need to and am trying to quit. This had been in the back of my mind worrying me. Thanks for your advice, I appreciate your honesty! Sissy