A recent report indicates that air pollution significantly raises the risk of various cancers, including liver and breast cancer. The report, prepared by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) with support from the Clean Air Fund, is based on data from 42 analytical studies and systematic reviews published between 2019 and 2024.
The report states that air pollution not only affects the lungs but also increases the risk of other types of cancer, raising the likelihood of death from these diseases. Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, emphasized that clean air is not a luxury but a fundamental human right.
Details of the Findings
The report found that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) poses the greatest health risk. Data showed that populations exposed to high levels of PM2.5 face an 11% increase in the overall cancer risk, with notable increases in the risks of liver, colon, kidney, lung, and bladder cancers.
Furthermore, the report noted that long-term exposure to high levels of PM2.5 is associated with a 12% increase in the risk of cancer-related death, 20% for breast cancer, 14% for liver cancer, and 12% for lung cancer. In contrast, exposure to larger particles (PM10) was linked to a 10% increase in cancer risk.
Background & Context
Air pollution is considered one of the pressing global issues, affecting the health of millions worldwide. In many developing countries, populations suffer from high pollution levels with limited resources to mitigate this problem. Women and children are particularly vulnerable to pollution risks due to the use of solid fuels for cooking and heating.
Studies indicate that women exposed to household air pollution face a 69% increase in the risk of lung cancer, along with heightened risks for cervical cancer. In Europe, a recent study revealed that poorer areas are the most affected by pollution.
Impact & Consequences
Data shows that progress in reducing cancer mortality may be jeopardized by air pollution. Carrie Adams, the CEO of the Union for International Cancer Control, stated that pollution is a risk that people cannot avoid, disproportionately affecting women, children, and those living in poverty.
Despite the growing recognition of the link between air pollution and cancer, the authors called for more coordinated action. Elisabeth Weiderpass, the executive director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer, asserted that the medical community cannot wait for perfect evidence before taking necessary actions.
Regional Significance
Arab countries are among the regions suffering significantly from air pollution, threatening the health of their populations. There is a pressing need to enhance air quality standards and implement effective policies to reduce pollution, especially in major cities experiencing rapid population growth.
Improving air quality is not only a health necessity but also an economic and social investment. Arab governments must take serious steps to ensure a healthy and safe environment for their citizens.