Air pollution and lung cancer in men

Main Category: Lung Cancer
Article Date: 04 Dec 2003 - 0:00 PDT

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Norwegian scientists say that men are more likely to develop lung cancer if they live in areas where the air is more polluted.

The scientists have studied over 16,000 men (over 30 years). Where levels of nitrogen dioxide are high, men have a greater chance of developing the disease. (Smoking is still, by far, the biggest factor).

This large-scale study has provided clear signs that there is a definite correlation between levels of pollution and lung cancer in men.

During those three decades more than 400 men developed lung cancer.

In order to take into account smoking habits the scientists altered their results. However, they still found that for every rise in concentration of nitrogen dioxide around their home (compared to their home at the start of the study) there was approximately an 8% risk increase.

Even though this is still a low risk, the Norwegian researchers (from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health) say it is clear evidence.

They said 'Urban air pollution may increase the risk of developing lung cancer in men. Compared with smoking the association between air pollution and lung cancer is weak but of expected size.' (Thorax journal).

They also added that similar research was required in order to make sure that there were no other factors at work.

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