There is growing evidence that exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of developing throat and neck cancers. This is because air pollution contains a variety of harmful substances, including particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), which can damage the cells in the throat and neck and make them more likely to become cancerous.
Several studies have found a link between air pollution and throat and neck cancers. For example, a meta-analysis of 20 studies published in 2019 found that exposure to PM2.5, a type of particulate matter that is less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, was associated with a 14% increased risk of laryngeal cancer. Another study, published in 2018, found that exposure to NOx was associated with a 20% increased risk of nasopharyngeal cancer.
Recent study in UK and China has shown air pollutants particularly PM2.5 particles increase chances of throat and neck cancerAir pollutants cause irritation of throat and lead to inflammation. This effect over a long term can lead to throat and neck cancerPollutants cause DNA damage, a critical step in the process of normal cells turning into cancer cells. Once the DNA damage reaches beyond a point of repair, cancer occurs in the body and proliferates.Common symptoms to look for are persistent irritation in throat, dry cough and difficulty in swallowingPeople over the age of 65, with diabetes and with high blood pressure have a higher risk of air pollution induced cancer as per this studyWe recommend use of air pollution mask , indoor air purifiers and constant drinking of water to humidify the throat to prevent risk of developing cancerHealthy diet consisting of vegetables and fruits and regular exercise also helps prevent cancerIn addition government must take action to curb the rising air pollution to prevent a cancer epidemic in the country.(Author: Dr. Vineet Kaul, Associate Consultant, The Oncology Centre, CK Birla Hospital Gurugram)
