Opinion: Air Pollution — How To Counter Lung Cancer Risk When The Air Gets Too Toxic To Breathe

Although smoking has been a well-known cause of lung cancer, an increasing number of cases are emerging among non-smokers, largely due to exposure to harmful air pollutants. 

Preventing lung cancer caused by air pollution requires a multifaceted approach that combines individual, community, and government efforts.

Source : PTI

Dr Chirag Bhirud 

Lung cancer is a significant public health issue worldwide, including in India, and air pollution has emerged as a notable risk factor. In India, lung cancer is one of the most common cancers, and ranks high in both incidence and mortality. Although smoking has been a well-known cause, an increasing number of cases are emerging among non-smokers, largely due to exposure to harmful air pollutants. As air quality continues to decline across many parts of India, understanding the link between air pollution and lung cancer, along with preventive measures, becomes essential.

How Air Pollution Contributes To Lung Cancer

Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) are key air pollutants that increase lung cancer risk. PM2.5 and PM10, largely from vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and construction, penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and cellular damage that can lead to cancerous mutations. PAHs, released from incomplete fossil fuel combustion, can directly damage DNA in lung cells. NO2 and SO2, produced mainly by motor vehicles, power plants, and industrial facilities, elevate cancer risk through chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in lung tissue.

How Can Lung Cancer Due to Air Pollution Be Avoided?

Preventing lung cancer caused by air pollution requires a multifaceted approach that combines individual, community, and government efforts. Monitoring air quality regularly through the Air Quality Index (AQI) is essential; individuals can make informed decisions to limit outdoor activities, especially exercise, when pollution levels are high, with the help of real-time AQI updates from websites and apps. Wearing high-quality masks, such as N95 or P100 respirators, can filter out harmful particles like PM2.5 and help protect against pollutant inhalation. Indoors, air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can reduce exposure to pollutants from outdoor sources, as well as from cooking and household cleaning agents, thus improving air quality for vulnerable groups like the elderly and those with respiratory issues. Expanding green spaces — both in urban planning and at home — also helps improve air quality, as plants provide oxygen, and filter out certain pollutants. Community efforts to plant trees and create green areas can significantly improve local air conditions. 

At a societal level, supporting clean energy sources, such as electric vehicles and solar power, can reduce emissions. Backing policies that promote stricter emissions standards and pollution controls for vehicles and industries is crucial for broader, long-term change. Lastly, avoiding smoking and limiting exposure to secondhand smoke can reduce the cumulative effects of air pollution and smoking, lowering the risk of lung cancer.

To combat the growing impact of air pollution on lung cancer rates, government intervention is essential. The Government of India has introduced various initiatives, such as the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), aimed at reducing particulate pollution in over 131 cities.In India, where air quality is declining in many areas, understanding the risk factors and adopting preventive strategies can make a difference in lung cancer incidence. Individual efforts combined with policy changes can mitigate the impact of pollution, promoting healthier environments and reducing lung cancer cases related to air pollution.

The author is a Consultant for Surgical Oncology at Jupiter Hospital, Pune

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]