Let Us Not Forget That Air Pollution Also Causes Cancer

Air pollution varies with the substances present in our area, the time of year and weather-related factors. Sources may be human-made, such as vehicles, industry and burning petroleum, or natural, such as North African desert dust.

Pollution is generally divided into indoor and outdoor categories. Both increase cancer risk; the important thing is minimizing exposure as much as possible.

Risks should nevertheless be assessed by importance. Smoking/tobacco use carries a far greater risk of lung cancer than outdoor pollution. If you smoke, the best thing you can do for your health is first to quit . Studies show exposure is increasing substantially across much of the world, particularly densely populated, rapidly industrializing countries. According to the latest Global Burden of Disease Project data, in 2010, worldwide, 223 thousand lung cancer deaths were among 3.2 million deaths from air pollution.

Outdoor Air Pollution

Air pollution is associated with increased lung cancer risk. Although individual risk is small, effects across the population are substantial. Research provides sufficient evidence of increased cancer risk, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies pollution as a group 1 carcinogen .

Polluting dust particles can travel up to 2500 km to contribute to air pollution.

Studies show pollution causes not only lung cancer but other illnesses, particularly respiratory and heart diseases.

Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor pollution has varied causes, including heating methods and cooking fuels in homes and workplaces. Tobacco smoke is one of the most important.

Passive – Secondhand and Thirdhand – Smoking

Millions are passive smokers. Besides exposure to smoke indoors, thirdhand smoke residues on belongings also substantially increase cancer risk.

• Beyond passive smoking - what is thirdhand smoke exposure?

Individual Measures Against Air Pollution

• We can play a part in minimizing levels by avoiding creating more pollution.
• Instead of motor vehicles, whenever possible choose cycling and walking. Active living also reduces cancer and other disease risks.
• If we smoke, we should quit; if not, we should beware of passive and thirdhand exposure.

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