Can Lung Cancer be Related to Air Pollution?

What is Air Pollution?

Air pollution is a combination of aerosols (suspended solid and liquid particulate matter) and different toxic gases, dust, carbon particles, water vapour, soot etc- all of which are carcinogens. When we breathe, they reach the lungs and affect them. Air pollution is responsible for a number of lung-related problems like respiratory distress, asthma as well as heart disorders.

A study by the World Health Organization identified industrial and vehicular emissions as the chief contributors to lung cancer. With rapid industrialization of the country and more people buying cars, air pollution shows no signs of declining and hence endangering the entire population of the country.

What can you do to save yourself from lung cancer?

WHO has exhorted all countries to cut down industrial emissions because of the toll air pollution is taking on human health. However, the whole issue is fraught with arguments and counter-arguments. Therefore, in the meanwhile, you can adopt a few measures to protect yourself from the harmful effects of air pollution.

• If you live in a polluted city, wear a dust mask every time you step out of your house, be it for work or for shopping.

• Work out inside. Avoid exercising out in the open, especially at dawn and dusk, when pollution levels are at the peak.

• Plant a few plants around your house, or keep a few indoor plants that will supply you with fresh oxygen.

• Reduce your carbon footprint so as you do not add to air pollution woes. Use heater and air-conditioners as little as possible. Opt for pool car services.

Air pollution is a silent killer. It is evident from the fact that the instances of lung cancer have gone up over the last two decades, coinciding with the rapid flourish of industrialization and escalating air pollution levels. Following the above measures can help you counter the ill effects of air pollution on your lungs.