Can Air Pollution Cause Lung Cancer In Non-Smokers (Credits: Canva)
\n\nSmoking is widely recognised as a leading cause of lung cancer, but what happens when someone has never touched a cigarette and still breathes polluted air every day? As air quality deteriorates across Delhi-NCR and other Indian cities, doctors are warning that the health risks extend far beyond coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. Dr G.C. Khilnani, Chairman of the PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, says air pollution is not merely a winter problem. In a recent interview, he highlighted how prolonged exposure can affect multiple organs, including the lungs, heart and brain.
\n\n“Air pollution in Delhi remains throughout the year,” he said, stressing that the focus should be on identifying and controlling pollution sources rather than reacting only when winter smog arrives.
\n\nOne of the biggest concerns is PM2.5, microscopic particulate matter that can travel deep into the lungs. Long-term exposure can trigger inflammation and other biological changes that contribute to cancer development. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified outdoor air pollution and particulate matter as carcinogenic to humans in 2013. Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives in 2014 also found that every 10 microgram-per-cubic-metre…
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/lifestyle
