Given your interest in statistics I thought you would understand the difference between a causal link and a correlation.
A causal link means that if A occurs (smoking) then B (lung cancer) will follow. As only 10-15% of smokers develop lung cancer the causal link is not proven.
its not me who doesnt understand...its you...
Causal links
The correlation between a factor and an outcome could be a coincidence, or it could be caused by a completely different factor.
For example, as ice cream sales increase, sales of meat for barbecues also increase. However, buying ice cream does not cause people to buy barbecue meat. This is influenced by the temperature and weather.
To show a causal link, scientists must find evidence that scientifically explains the connection.
If there is no scientific explanation then there is only a correlation. It cannot be shown that the factor causes the outcome.You seem to think that because everyone who smokes does not deevlop lung cancr then there is no Causal link...that isnt true.
remember those beagles who were forced to smoke...what do you think caused the lung cancer that followed....or do you think it was just a coincidence...LOL