Lung cancer in non-smokers on the rise, says new Lancet study; what is the cause? | Health News

Lung cancer cases among non-smokers are on the rise, according to a new study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal on World Cancer Day, February 4. It stated that air pollution is potentially contributing to the increase, with findings indicating that adenocarcinoma, a cancer that originates in the glands (which produce fluids such as mucous), accounted for 53-70 percent of lung cancer cases in non-smokers globally in 2022.The study added that adenocarcinoma is “weakly linked to cigarette smoking,” unlike other types of lung cancers, highlighting that the proportion of lung cancer cases among non-smokers has grown.
The study estimated that in 2022, there were 9.08 lakh new cases of lung cancer in women, out of which 59.7 per cent were adenocarcinoma. The authors stated, “Lung cancer in people who have never smoked is estimated to be the fifth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, occurring almost exclusively as adenocarcinoma and most commonly in women and Asian populations.”
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Moreover, 80,378 of these cases in women were linked to particulate matter (PM) pollution.
Let’s understand in detail.
Cancer in the lungs occurs when “abnormal cells start to grow uncontrollably.” “This further leads to the formation of tumours that make it harder for an individual to breathe efficiently. In some cases, it can also spread to other body parts, highlighting the importance of early detection,” said Dr Jayant Gawande, consultant, medical oncolog, TGH Onco Life Cancer Centre, Talegaon.
Dr. Gawande said the increase could be attributed to “several factors and hidden risks in daily life.”
“One of the common causes of lung cancer is air pollution, especially in cities with heavy traffic and industrial smoke. Your lungs can get damaged when you constantly inhale polluted air for longer. This can increase the risk of lung cancer,” said Dr Gawande.Story continues below this ad
Dr Shishir N Shetty, senior consultant, surgical oncology, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital Vashi, said the incidence rate of lung cancer due to non-tobacco causes can be directly attributed to air pollution and asbestos. “Industrial chemicals have long been cited as a cause; however, look at the vehicular pollution levels now, which contains silica, cadmium, and chromium. These can increase the chances of lung cancer,” said Dr Shetty.
Passive smoking can be a major contributor, too. It is when one inhales cigarette smoke from others.
According to Dr Shetty, nowadays, there are smoking booths in public places like airports, malls, etc. “Smoking booths are more dangerous because you are in a small area where a person is smoking. So, he is exposed to both active and passive smoking,” said Dr Shetty.
Other factors can include household fumes, workplace chemicals, and genetics. “Radon gases can severely hamper lung functions. This is why taking proactive steps to lower your risk of developing lung cancer becomes crucial,” said Dr Gawande.Story continues below this ad
Your environment impacts lung health (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
What to note?
Dr Gawande shared:
*Avoid going to polluted areas. Always check AQI (air quality index) outdoors or at the place you are visiting and make plans accordingly.*Ensure that you have proper ventilation in the kitchen when cooking.*If exposed to harmful chemicals in the workplace, wear protective masks and safety gear to improve your health.*Adopt a healthy lifestyle.

*Go for regular checkups and screenings to catch lung cancer early on before it progresses to an advanced level or spreads to other parts of your body.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.