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PM2.5 dust pollution and breast cancer risk

PM2.5 Pollution and Breast Cancer Risk: The Silent Danger That’s On The Rise and What You Need to Know


Currently, several studies have pointed out a worrying association between long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and an increased risk of breast cancer. PM2.5, which is smaller than 2.5 microns, not only affects the respiratory and heart systems but may also be a risk factor for cancer. From the information gained from research on PM2.5 and breast cancer, to find out the possible mechanisms involved and preventive measures.

Empirical evidence: Increased breast cancer risk from PM2.5

Several large studies around the world have shown a link between PM2.5 and breast cancer:

  • US study: A study using the California Teachers Study database, which followed more than 100,000 women, found that long-term exposure to PM2.5 significantly increased the risk of breast cancer, particularly in women with higher than average cumulative exposure.

  • NIH All of US Research Program: A large-scale study involving over 500,000 people in the United States showed an association between PM2.5 and risk of breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers.

  • European Study of Cohorts for Air Pollution Effects (ESCAPE): Analysis of data from a multi-country European long-term study (European Study of Cohorts for Air Pollution Effects (ESCAPE)) suggests that increases in PM2.5 of just 5 micrograms per cubic meter are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

  • A study in Thailand: A study in Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces found that women living in areas with high air pollution, especially PM2.5, had a higher risk of breast cancer than women living in areas with low air pollution.

Major risk factors

  • PM2.5 concentration levels: Breast cancer risk significantly increases with higher PM2.5 levels.

  • Duration of exposure: Long-term exposure to PM2.5, such as more than 7.4 years, significantly increases the risk.

  • Tumor type: This increased risk was found to be more common in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancers than other types.

Geographic differences: PM2.5 composition and sources

The chemical composition of PM2.5 varies depending on the source, such as fuel combustion, industrial emissions, biomass burning, traffic, and climatic factors. These can result in different levels of risk in different areas. Studying the composition of PM2.5 in different areas can help understand the specific risks associated with that source.

Mechanisms of cancer caused by PM2.5: inflammation, free radicals and hormones

Although the mechanism of action of PM2.5 leading to breast cancer is still under investigation, current evidence suggests that PM2.5 may cause the following effects:

  • Chronic inflammation and free radical damage: PM2.5 fine particles can penetrate into breast tissue, induce chronic inflammation and increase the production of free radicals, which can damage DNA and cells, lead to mutations and increase the risk of cancer.

  • Hormonal disruption: Certain chemicals found in PM2.5, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), can disrupt the function of estrogen, a key factor in the development of breast cancer.

  • Genetic and Epigenetic Changes: PM2.5 can cause DNA damage and affect the expression of genes involved in regulating cell growth, including epigenetics, which is the change in gene activity without changing the DNA sequence.

Public health impact: The importance of reducing pollution

  • Risk from exposure to low-level pollution: Even in areas with PM2.5 levels below the standard, long-term exposure may increase breast cancer risk in the population.

  • Population-level impacts: While the increased risk at the individual level may not seem high, given the large population size exposed to air pollution, the overall health impacts are significant.

Conclusion: Reduce PM2.5 for good health and breast cancer prevention

Evidence from large studies and meta-analyses supports an association between PM2.5 exposure and breast cancer risk. Reducing air pollution, particularly PM2.5, is therefore an important strategy to reduce population-level breast cancer incidence and promote overall health.

On a personal level, you can reduce your risk by:

  • Monitor PM2.5 levels and avoid outdoor activities when dust levels are high.

  • Use an air purifier that is effective in filtering PM2.5 inside the home.

  • Wear an N95 mask when you need to go out into highly polluted areas.

  • Support policies and measures to reduce air pollution at community and national levels.

  • Take care of your health and stay strong.

Sustainable prevention requires cooperation between governments, private sectors and citizens to reduce emissions from various sources, such as promoting the use of clean energy, improving public transportation, controlling pollution from industrial plants and campaigning to raise public awareness of the importance of clean air, in order to create a safe and healthy environment for everyone.

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