Cancer, once considered an uncommon and fatal disease, has become an increasingly prevalent health issue globally and in India. Alarming trends show India as one of the countries with rapidly rising cancer rates, and it is often known as the "cancer capital of the world." Shifts in lifestyle, environmental factors, and dietary habits have all contributed to this rising epidemic, affecting not only older adults but also a growing number of young people.
However, apart from all of these factors, one factor that has played a major role in increasing cancer cases in India is pollution. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is known to cause cancer in humans.
Research indicates that long-term exposure to polluted air can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancers such as bladder, breast, and colon cancer. A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that people living in areas with high levels of air pollution are at a higher risk of lung cancer, with PM2.5 particles penetrating deep into the lungs, causing cellular damage and inflammation that may lead to cancer.
Another study by the American Cancer Society showed a direct correlation between high levels of air pollution and an increased incidence of cancers in non-smokers. The carcinogenic effects of air pollution are particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, including c.