Lung cancer is not only restricted to smokers but non-smokers are also getting trapped in its vicious circle. Air pollution is the main reason behind lung cancer among non-smokers. According to the latest study published in the Lancet Respiratory Medicine Journal on World Cancer Day, Lung cancer is the most common forms of cancer, with 2.5 million people diagnosed in the year 2022. This study revealed an increase in lung cancer cases among non-smokers, linking this rise to exposure of Air pollution. The study reported that growing prevalence of Adenocarcinoma, a subtype of lung cancer is increasingly common among those who have never smoked.
According to this study, about 2,00,000 cases of adenocarcinoma worldwide in 2022 were associated with air pollution exposure and adenocarcinoma risk. Researchers noted that as smoking prevalence has declined in many countries but air pollution was the biggest responsible factor behind lung cancer cases. Air pollution, especially in cities with heavy traffic and industrial smoke, is common cause of lung cancer. Constant inhalation of polluted air for longer period, leads to damage to the lungs and this, thus increases the risk of lung cancer.
The study reported, “Air pollution can be considered an important factor that partly explains the emerging predominance of adenocarcinoma that accounts for 53% to 70% of cases of lung cancer among people who have never smoked worldwide.”
The study found that adenocarcinoma is weakly linked to cigarette smoking, unlike other types of lung cancers. This highlights the proportion of lung cancer cases among non-smokers.
This latest study results provide useful insights on how the disease and its underlying risk factors are evolving. The main determinants of changing risk profile of lung cancer are the changes in smoking patterns and air pollution exposure.
Health professional urge individual to be aware of lung cancer symptoms and early detection is the key. You should consult with your heath expert immediately if you face any issues.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only.
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