Air Pollution Linked to Higher Rates of Head and Neck Cancer
A new study by Mass General Brigham researchers has found a significant link between air pollution and head and neck cancer.
Study Highlights
The study, “Air Pollution Exposure and Head and Neck Cancer Incidence,” is a multi-institutional collaboration with researchers from Mass General Brigham, Johns Hopkins University, and Wayne State University.
Research Findings
The researchers used data from the U.S. Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results national cancer database from 2002 to 2012 and found that air pollution is linked to higher rates of head and neck aerodigestive cancer.
The study focused on PM2.5, particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns, and its effect on head and neck aerodigestive cancer incidence.
Expert Insights
Study senior author Stella Lee noted that while there has been substantial research investigating the effects of air pollutants on lung disease, few studies have focused on air pollution exposure as a risk factor for the upper airway, including the development of head and neck cancer.
“These findings shed light on the significant role of environmental pollution in cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract, highlighting the need for further awareness, research, and mitigation efforts,” Lee said.
Co-author Amanda Dilger added, “Environmental health and personal health are inextricably linked. Our study highlights the need to improve air quality standards in order to decrease the risk of developing cancer, including head and neck cancer.”
Conclusion
The study’s findings suggest that air pollution is a significant risk factor for head and neck cancer, and that improving air quality standards could help decrease the risk of developing this type of cancer.
FAQs
Q: What is the connection between air pollution and head and neck cancer?
A: The study found that air pollution is linked to higher rates of head and neck aerodigestive cancer.
Q: What type of air pollution was studied?
A: The study focused on PM2.5, particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns.
Q: What are the implications of this study?
A: The study highlights the need to improve air quality standards to decrease the risk of developing head and neck cancer.
Q: What is the next step for this research?
A: The researchers hope to expand their research by taking other data sets into account and showing the findings to the public to guide policy and aid treatment in the future.
