Growing Risk of Lung Cancer with Increase In Air Pollution

Lung cancer is the second most prevalent type of cancer globally and the most common type of cancer found in men. Lung cancer is a cause for concern as it accounts for nearly 18% of all cancer deaths. According to research, every 1 in 16 individuals is diagnosed with a type of lung cancer in their lifetime.

We can classify lung cancer into two main classifications: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These two types of cancer have many vital differences, but the most significant one is that in SCLC, cancerous cells appear small and round under a microscope. While in NSCLC, they appear larger.

However, no matter the type of cancer, smoking is considered the leading risk factor.

But is smoking the only cause?

When most of us think of the cause of lung cancer, the first thing that comes to mind is cigarette smoking, and that is true in most cases. However, did you know that air pollution can also cause lung cancer? The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified outdoor pollution as a group 1 human carcinogen for lung cancer.

Air pollution and lung cancer risk

Air pollutants can cause airway irritation and may cause shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, asthma, and chest pain. Exposure to air pollution also increases the risk of lung cancer, heart attacks, stroke, or even premature death.

You would be surprised to know that air pollution causes nearly 1 in 10 lung cancer cases. However, it is vital to remember that smoking still has a much bigger effect on lung cancer development.

What pollutants cause lung cancer?

Years of research show that particle pollution in the air we breathe, such as exhaust fumes from vehicles or smoke from burning coal or wood, can cause lung cancer. Air pollution contains gaseous pollutants like:

Sulfur dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Carbon monoxide
Volatile organic compounds
Particulate matter (PM)

Particulate matter is a mix of minute solid and liquid particles in the air, such as acids, organic chemicals, metals, soil, and dust particles.

Effects of air pollution

Although breathing in larger air pollutants can be harmful to our health, inhaling smaller particles is more dangerous. The bigger particles cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, but our natural defense mechanism helps us cough or sneeze them out of the body. Unfortunately, this is not the case with small particles. They get trapped deep in our lungs and can even get into the bloodstream, damaging our health.

The particles found in air pollution have the potential to damage DNA in cells in different ways. For example, tiny particle matter can build up in your lungs and change how cells replicate. It can, in turn, lead to DNA damage, causing cancer.

Who is the most at risk?

Since lung cancer is mostly associated with smoking, people misunderstand that all smokers can get lung cancer. But, the truth is most smokers do not develop lung cancer, and not all people diagnosed with lung cancer smoke. However, some people do face a higher risk of acquiring cancer.

Specialists like Dr. Manish Singhal say that anyone living in areas with high particulate pollution is at risk. People who exhibit a higher risk of lung cancer include:

Children
The elderly
People diagnosed with lung and heart disease.
Diabetes
People with low incomes
People who work or exercise outdoors.

What can you do to reduce cancer risk?

In today’s world, it is difficult to avoid air pollution completely. But, you do not have to do something as extreme as to avoid going outside your home. Cancer doctors recommend healthy lifestyle practices like avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, staying safe in the sun, and looking out for signs and symptoms.

Lung cancer symptoms can include:

Wheezing
Blood in sputum
Hoarse throat
Loss of appetite
Unknown weight loss
Chest pain/discomfort

If any of these symptoms persist, we advise you to consult a cancer doctor as soon as you can.

Additionally, you can take steps to reduce air pollution levels by avoiding creating more pollutants. Walking or cycling when you can is a great way to reduce pollution levels and stay healthy.

In conclusion

Lung cancer is a growing concern with high mortality and morbidity and calls for immediate attention to public health interventions. Fortunately, lung cancer is curable. All people need to do is raise their awareness of the various risk factors of lung cancer (such as air pollution), learn how to avoid them, and consult a cancer doctor on time.

Dealing with cancer is not easy as one treatment may not work for everyone. That is why it is crucial to consult a lung cancer doctor in Delhi NCR, who can explain the best treatment option for you or your loved ones. Make sure to book a consultation with Dr. Manish Singhal, the best oncologist in Delhi, at Cancer Consult India.