Air Pollution Linked to Increased Risk of Breast Cancer, Studies Suggest
Air Pollution Linked to Increased Risk of Breast Cancer, Studies Suggest - Express Healthcare Management Air pollutants, particularly particulate matter PM 2.5 and PM10, have been linked to premature heart attacks and deaths, but recent international studies have found a correlation between exposure to these pollutants and an increased risk of breast cancer in women. These studies, conducted in the US and France, have raised concerns about the potential health effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution. The French study revealed a 28% increase in breast cancer risk with a 10 g/m3 increase in exposure to fine particle (PM2.5) air pollution, which can cause inflammation in the body and potentially lead to developing cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer declared that outdoor air polluted can lead to lung cancer in 2015. The study followed 500,000 women and men over a 20-year period and identified 15,870 breast cancer cases. Breast cancer remains a significant concern in India, where the incidence has increased by 50% from 1965 to 1985. The global burden of the disease is expected to reach nearly 2 million cases by 2030.
Pubblicato : 2 anni fa di Sandeep Kunchikor in Environment
Air pollutants, particularly particulate matter PM 2.5 and PM10, have long been associated with premature heart attacks and deaths. However, recent international studies have found a correlation between exposure to these pollutants and an increased risk of breast cancer in women. These studies, conducted in the US and France, have sparked concerns about the potential health effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution.
The studies highlight the role of PM2.5, particles produced through chemical reactions in the atmosphere, in causing various health problems. Previous research has established the link between PM2.5 and premature death, especially in individuals with chronic heart or lung diseases. Additionally, the International Agency for Research on Cancer declared in 2015 that PM in outdoor air pollution can lead to lung cancer.
In Mumbai, it was commonly believed that the sea breeze offered protection against air pollutants. However, recent data has shown high levels of PM10 in the city, surpassing even that of Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted cities. This increase in pollution levels raises concerns about the potential impact on public health.
Medical professionals have varying opinions regarding the link between air pollutants and breast cancer. Some suggest that air pollutants trigger inflammation in the body, which could increase the risk of developing cancer. However, others remain skeptical and underline the need for more extensive research before establishing a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
The French study presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress in Madrid revealed a 28% increase in breast cancer risk with a 10 g/m3 increase in exposure to fine particle (PM2.5) air pollution. The study analyzed a group of 2,419 women with breast cancer and another group of 2,984 women without breast cancer between 1990 and 2011.
Similarly, the US study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found an 8% rise in breast cancer incidence among individuals living in areas with higher PM2.5 exposure. The study followed 500,000 women and men over a 20-year period and identified 15,870 breast cancer cases.
Experts at the ESMO meeting emphasized that PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting breast and other tissues. They also suggested that air pollutants could alter the structure of breast tissue and enable the growth of tumors.
Breast cancer remains a significant concern in India, where the incidence of the disease has increased by 50% from 1965 to 1985. According to Globocan data from 2020, breast cancer accounted for a significant proportion of all cancer cases and deaths in India. Estimates indicate that the global burden of breast cancer is expected to reach nearly 2 million cases by 2030.
While the link between air pollution and breast cancer is still relatively new, it is crucial to raise awareness and promote early diagnosis for better treatment outcomes. Further research is necessary to fully understand the impact of air pollutants on breast cancer and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
Temi: ESG, Environmental Crime