THIS unseen link between air pollution, can be rising cause of Lung Cancer among non-smoker

A recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine has revealed alarming statistics about lung cancer among non-smokers, particularly highlighting the rising prevalence of adenocarcinoma. This type of lung cancer accounted for 53-70% of cases in non-smokers globally in 2022, with air pollution likely contributing to this increase.

Adenocarcinoma on the Rise

The findings indicate that adenocarcinoma, which originates in glandular cells producing fluids like mucus, is now the most common lung cancer type across all genders. In 2022 alone, an estimated 908,000 new lung cancer cases were diagnosed in women, with nearly 60% being adenocarcinoma. Alarmingly, around 80,378 of these cases were linked to particulate matter pollution, showcasing a concerning trend as smoking rates decline worldwide .

Impact of Air Pollution

As smoking rates decrease, the proportion of lung cancer cases among non-smokers has been steadily increasing. The study emphasizes that nearly the entire global population resides in areas where air quality falls below WHO standards. Lead author Freddie Bray from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) noted that this trend offers critical insights for cancer prevention specialists and policymakers aiming to combat tobacco use and air pollution .

Gender and Geographic Disparities

The study also highlights that lung cancer in non-smokers is predominantly found in women and Asian populations. It is estimated that lung cancer among individuals who have never smoked is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The authors stress the necessity for targeted strategies to address this growing health concern, particularly among high-risk populations .

A Call for Action

As the incidence of adenocarcinoma continues to rise among non-smokers, experts urge immediate action to mitigate air pollution and promote public health initiatives. The findings underscore the urgent need for effective tobacco control strategies and environmental regulations to protect vulnerable populations from the increasing threat of lung cancer.