Scientists think there is one cause behind worrying rise of lung cancer in people that have never smoked

Scientists have discovered a worrying reason behind the rise in lung cancer cases among people who have never smoked. While smoking has traditionally been the main cause of lung cancer, researchers now believe air pollution is a significant factor in the increase of cases among non-smokers.

According to the NHS, around 43,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with lung cancer each year, making it one of the most common cancers. Cancer Research UK reports that 60% of lung cancer cases are linked to smoking, but the remaining 40% are not. This has led scientists to investigate other causes.

A study published in *The Lancet Respiratory Medicine* journal suggests that air pollution is a major contributor to lung cancer cases worldwide. The research focuses on a type of lung cancer called adenocarcinoma, which develops in the glandular tissues of the lungs. This type accounts for 80-85% of all lung cancer cases.

The study estimates that in 2022, around 200,000 cases of adenocarcinoma (15% of the total) were likely caused by air pollution. This is particularly concerning as smoking rates decline globally. The research also found that these cases were more common in women and East Asian populations, such as in China.

The researchers highlighted that as smoking becomes less common, the proportion of lung cancer cases among non-smokers is increasing. They emphasized the urgent need to study the link between air pollution and lung cancer further.

Dr. Freddie Bray, one of the researchers, noted that the impact of air pollution on lung cancer cases will depend on how effectively we reduce both smoking and air pollution in the future. This is especially concerning given the World Health Organization’s 2019 estimate that 99% of the world’s population lives in areas where air quality does not meet safety guidelines.

The study underscores the dangers of living in polluted environments, where people are constantly exposed to car exhaust fumes and fossil fuels. While the link between air pollution and lung cancer is still being studied, the findings highlight the need for urgent action to improve air quality.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer:
The NHS lists the following as key warning signs of lung cancer:
– A cough that lasts more than three weeks
– Persistent breathlessness
– Frequent chest infections
– Coughing up blood
– Unexplained weight loss
– Constant tiredness or fatigue
– Pain when breathing or coughing