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World Cancer Day 2025: Urban India would have to address the pollution crisis with strong government action, stricter regulations, and public awareness to curb pollution-related cancers
World Cancer Day 2025: Life after cancer comes with its own set of challenges
World Cancer Day 2025: In recent years, India has witnessed a growing number of cases of cancer, especially within the urban areas. Though factors behind it have always been diverse, one of the most critical factors that are not considered from time to time is the level of pollution in the country. Both air and water pollution in urban centers have been associated with a rise in cancer rates, which makes it a very important issue for public health. Dr. Parveen Yadav, Chief and Sr. Consultant – Thoracic Surgery & Surgical Oncology, Artemis Hospitals shares all you need to know:
Air Pollution: A Silent Killer
Air pollution is one of the main environmental factors contributing to the development of cancer. Exposure to airborne carcinogenic particles, especially PM2.5, has been proven to increase the chances of lung cancer among people who reside in those highly populous cities of Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. These particulates result from the exhausts of vehicles and industrial processes. They enter deep into the lungs and dilute the blood. These can ultimately lead to chronic inflammation, genetic alterations, and oxidative damage, all contributing towards malignant cell generation. Chronic exposure increases the vulnerability for lung, throat, and skin cancers as well.
The Water Crisis: Contaminants Linked to Cancer
While air pollution has been the main focus of discussion, water pollution in urban areas is equally dangerous. Heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals in groundwater and water supply systems interfere with cellular processes and are associated with cancers of the bladder, kidney, and liver. Carcinogens which are commonly found in untreated or inadequately treated water, greatly increase cancer risks in populations using these contaminated water sources, thus worsening the public health crisis.
Lifestyle and the Urban Cancer Epidemic
Lifestyle changes associated with urban life amplify the impacts of pollution. People have higher risks of cancer from increased stress, bad diet, and sedentary lifestyles. There is a lack of awareness regarding the harmful impacts of pollution with improper urban planning that exposes the people to such long-term exposures.
Urban India would have to address the pollution crisis with strong government action, stricter regulations, and public awareness to curb pollution-related cancers. It would endorse healthier lifestyles and minimize exposure and the protection of health.
