A recent study has revealed that higher levels of polluted materials (particulate matter) are linked to head and neck cancers.
Dr. John Kremer, who led the research, stated that previous studies on air pollution primarily focused on its effects on the lower respiratory system in relation to cancer. Connecting air pollution to head and neck cancer was challenging due to the relatively lower occurrence of these cancers compared to lung cancer.
He explained that since smoking is known to cause head and neck cancers (similar to lung cancer), researchers sought to understand any potential link between these cancers and air pollution. It appears that head and neck cancers are linked to the materials we inhale, as researchers have observed cases where carcinogens accumulate in the areas of the body where cancer may develop.
Senior author of the study, Stella Lee, emphasized that while there has been extensive research on the impact of air pollution on lung diseases, some studies have focused on the risks it poses to the upper respiratory system, including head and neck cancers.
She noted that the findings highlight the significant role of environmental pollution in cancers of the digestive and respiratory systems and call for more awareness, research, and efforts to mitigate this issue.
The study, a joint effort by researchers from Wayne State University, Johns Hopkins University, and Mass General Brigham, was led by John Kremer and John Pelman and published in the journal Scientific Reports.
