Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Can Air Pollution Cause Breast Cancer; See What Expert Says

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women worldwide. While many are familiar with the common risk factors such as genetics and lifestyle, emerging studies suggest pollution might play a role in increasing breast cancer risk. Could pollution be an overlooked cause of breast cancer? We spoke to Dr. Aditi Agrawal, a Breast Onco Surgeon and General Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road to offer some clarity. 

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that develops in the cells of the breast. While it primarily affects women, men can also be diagnosed with it. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, making regular screening and awareness essential. Breast cancer remains one of the most diagnosed cancers globally, emphasising the need for continuous awareness efforts.

Does Pollution And Breast Cancer Have Any Correlation?

Pollution, particularly air pollution, has been linked to several health conditions, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and even some cancers. But is there a connection between pollution and breast cancer? According to Dr. Aditi Agrawal, the link between pollution and breast cancer is not yet conclusive.

“Prolonged exposure to certain pollutants like particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons can cause several health problems, but there’s less likely to be a direct link to breast cancer. However, more concrete research needs to be done to showcase the significant correlation between breast cancer and air pollution,” explains Dr. Agrawal.

Studies suggest that toxins and pollutants in the environment may contribute to various forms of cancer, but when it comes to breast cancer specifically, the evidence is still developing. While certain pollutants are known to affect general health and could theoretically increase cancer risk, further investigation is required to solidify the connection.

What Can One Do To Safeguard Themselves From Pollutants To Prevent Breast Cancer?

Even though a direct link between pollution and breast cancer is yet to be firmly established, it's still essential to take proactive steps to limit exposure to environmental pollutants for overall well-being. Dr. Agrawal advises individuals to take measures to minimise their exposure to harmful pollutants and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“One can follow necessary proactive measures to safeguard themselves against pollutants while potentially reducing the risk of breast cancer. Limit your exposure to air pollution. Always check the air quality index (AQI) before stepping outdoors and avoid going outside when the pollution levels are high,” suggests Dr. Agrawal.

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Here are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure:

• Monitor Air Quality: Pay attention to the air quality index (AQI) in your area. If the pollution levels are high, avoid going outdoors, especially for extended periods. Wearing a mask in heavily polluted environments can help minimise inhalation of harmful particles.
• Install Air Purifiers: Indoor air pollution can be just as harmful as outdoor pollution. Dr. Agrawal recommends installing air purifiers at home, particularly in commonly used spaces like living rooms and bedrooms. “It significantly helps in flushing out the pollutants that are present indoors,” she says.
• Avoid Smoking Indoors: Cigarette smoke contains many harmful chemicals that can linger in the air and affect everyone in the household. Maintaining a smoke-free environment indoors is critical for reducing exposure to harmful toxins.
• Regular Health Checkups: Early detection is crucial in successfully treating breast cancer. Dr. Agrawal emphasises the importance of regular screenings, such as mammograms, especially if there's a family history of the disease. “Regular health checkups can help detect breast cancer early before it starts to progress, increasing the chances of successful treatment,” she says. Genetic testing may also be considered for those with a strong family history to catch potential cases before symptoms arise.

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While the correlation between pollution and breast cancer remains inconclusive, environmental pollutants are known to affect overall health in various ways. It’s essential to stay informed, limit exposure to harmful pollutants, and adopt a lifestyle that supports both physical and mental well-being. 

Image Credits: Freepik

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