Air Pollution: A Rising cause of lung cancer among non-smokers

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu):Lung cancer, traditionally associated with smokers, is increasingly affecting non-smokers, with air pollution emerging as a significant contributor. A recent study published in *Lancet Respiratory Medicine* has revealed a worrying trend: the number of lung cancer cases among individuals who have never smoked is on the rise, with air pollution being a major factor. Conducted by scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), the study analyzed data from the Global Cancer Observatory 2022. The findings highlight that adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer that develops in glands producing mucus and digestive fluids, is becoming more common among non-smokers. While this cancer type has little connection to smoking, experts believe that exposure to polluted air can increase the risk significantly.

Alarmingly, the research found that between 53-70% of lung cancer cases reported in 2022 were from people who had never smoked. Additionally, lung cancer caused by air pollution accounts for a significant portion of deaths, particularly in Asian countries, with women being disproportionately affected. In 2022 alone, around 80,000 women suffering from lung cancer were found to have a direct connection to air pollution.

Pollutants such as PM 2.5, tiny particles that penetrate deep into the lungs, are believed to damage cells and significantly increase the risk of cancer. According to IARC scientist Freddy Bray, the rapid rise in lung cancer cases is largely driven by changes in smoking habits and rising air pollution levels. To address this growing concern, Bray emphasizes the need for stronger government policies focused on tobacco control and air pollution reduction to safeguard public health.