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. visit our website to know more : https://cancerconsultindia.com/

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.
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