Lung cancer accounts for one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, with a significant portion of cases attributable to environmental factors. It is true that smoking still takes the first spot, being the leading cause of cancer. However, air pollution is a close second.
The impact of air pollution on the lungs is not an instant threat. However, over time, rapid urbanization and rising chemicals and pollutants in the air are becoming a leading reason behind the growing risks of lung cancer triggered by air pollution.
If you are worried about the impact of air pollution on lung cancer and want to take controlled measures to support your well-being, we have all the relevant insights for you.
What is Air Pollution?
Understanding what constitutes and defines air pollution is crucial to better understand how it could cause lung cancer.
Air pollution is marked by the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere, including gases, particulates, and biological molecules. Some of the most common pollutants include:
- Particulate matter
- Nitrogen Dioxide
- Sulfur Dioxide
- Ozone
- Volatile Organic Compounds
All of these together make the air that we breathe unhealthy and filled with toxic chemicals, which contribute to the leading complications surrounding the advent of lung cancer in patients.
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What are the Sources of Air Pollution?
Now, we know what kind of chemicals contribute to air pollution, but the question is, where do these chemicals come from? There are numerous sources of air pollution, including:
- Cars, trucks, and buses release various pollutants into the air.
- Factories and power plants emit significant quantities of NO2, SO2, and particulate matter.
- Coal, oil, and gas combustion for energy release many toxic substances.
- Indoor air pollution from cooking and heating, particularly in developing countries, can contribute significantly to overall exposure.
In most cases, there are hidden sources of air pollution that we don’t even realize we are coming in contact with.
What is the Link Between Air Pollution and Lung Cancer?
To better understand the impact of air pollution on lung cancer risks, we first have to establish a correlation between the two. Why does air pollution cause lung cancer?
The mechanisms by which air pollution can contribute to lung cancer are complex and multifaceted, so let us understand them better:
DNA Damage and Mutagenesis
One of the primary pathways through which air pollution contributes to lung cancer is through DNA damage. Pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), found in vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions, can form adducts with DNA, resulting in mutations.
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is another significant mechanism linking air pollution to lung cancer. Pollution exposure can trigger an inflammatory response in lung tissues, leading to a cycle of injury and repair that fosters tumorigenesis. Air pollutants can activate immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, which release pro-inflammatory cytokines, further contributing to the inflammatory response in the body.
Oxidative Stress
Air pollution induces oxidative stress by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cellular components. Pollutants such as ozone and particulate matter can interact with lung tissues and produce ROS. These highly reactive molecules can modify lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, disrupting cellular functions. In short, when your body is experiencing oxidative stress, there is an elevated risk of tumor formation, leading to the risk of lung cancer in patients.
Altered Immune Response
The impact of air pollution also affects the body’s immune system. It can alter the body’s immunity, which can contribute to cancer development. Pollutants can inhibit the activity of immune cells responsible for detecting and eliminating cancerous cells, which, in turn, contributes to the uncontrolled growth of the tumor, leading to the cancer’s spread.
Hormonal imbalances
In some rare cases, air pollutants can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially influencing the growth and development of cancer cells.
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What are the Health Consequences of Air Pollution-Related Lung Cancer?
If you are exposed to poor-quality air and heightened air pollution, you need to be mindful of the direct health consequences and symptoms.
Some of the most common complications to look out for include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Coughing and wheezing
- Chest pain
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
If you experience one or more of these symptoms out of the blue, it indicates that something could be amiss with your body. In such instances, the key is to consult experienced lung cancer specialists like Dr. Arvind Kumar.
Who is the At-Risk Population for Lung Cancer due to Air Pollution?
Several individuals are at heightened risk of developing lung cancer due to air pollution.
Here’s a better breakdown of the same:
Urban vs. Rural Residents
Individuals living in urban areas typically experience higher levels of air pollution due to dense traffic, industrial activities, and construction. Conversely, rural populations may face risks from agricultural practices, such as pesticide use and biomass burning, which can also contribute to air pollution. So, it is safe to assume that the risks are usually heightened in urban areas but not entirely obsolete in rural regions.
Occupational Exposure
People working in certain professions, such as construction workers, miners, and factory employees, may have higher exposure to harmful pollutants, hence increasing their risk of developing lung cancer. This is one of the least talked about hazards of lung cancer that requires more open discussions and awareness.
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What are some Personal Preventative Measures for a Healthy Life?
Beyond what the local and central governments are doing to better manage the quality of the air, solid preventative measures are needed to keep the risks of lung cancer due to air pollution in check.
Following are a few of the most important ones to look out for:
- You can keep track of your local air quality indices to plan things better and avoid stepping outdoors, heightening the risks of exposure to poor-quality air.
- If you live somewhere with a very high AQI, investing in an air purifier would be the best decision you make to safeguard yourself.
- During the peak pollution hours in the day, avoid stepping outside to keep the exposure to the chemicals at a minimum.
- Engaging in community efforts to promote cleaner air policies can lead to broader systemic changes.
Final Words
The link between air pollution and lung cancer is clear and substantiated by enough evidence collected from extensive research worldwide. As urbanization and industrialization grow, addressing air pollution becomes paramount. If you are worried that the air you are breathing is the reason behind your poor health and heightened risks of lung cancer, prioritize your well-being and focus on measures that will prevent the risks.
Getting routine check-ups of your respiratory health can also detect any complications at an early stage and ensure that you aren’t jeopardizing your well-being.
If you are considering scheduling a consultation with Dr. Arvind Kumar, kindly contact our team at 9773635888 or email us at arvindreena@gmail.com for more details.