Can air pollution cause lung cancer in non-smokers?

Dear Reader,

Air pollution and its health risks are concerning. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution can cause lung cancer even in non-smokers.

The specialised cancer agency of the World Health Organization, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has announced that it has classified outdoor air pollution as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1). 

Particulate matter, a major component of outdoor air pollution, was evaluated separately and was also classified as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1).  

To prevent health risks, we as a community must make conscious efforts to keep our environment healthy. Follow and spread awareness around measures to reduce air pollution. 

In order to reduce your risk at an individual level, consider the following:

1. Wear masks when stepping out of the house 
2. Use air purifiers at home and in the workspace (if possible) 
3. Indoor plants can help improve indoor air quality
4. Get routine health checkups to catch any disease or infection early on
5. Reduce your exposure to all known carcinogens, including tobacco and alcohol
6. Eat healthy, sleep well and exercise daily

If you are a person with a strong family history of cancer, you must inform your doctor and get regular screenings for cancer. 

Wish you good health!