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Lung cancer cases have increased among both smokers and non-smokers. One major contributor to this rise in non-smokers is air pollution. In addition to environmental pollutants, factors such as indoor air quality, metabolic issues, and workplace toxins have also led to a higher incidence of lung cancer among those who do not smoke.
Males and females in their 30s and 40s are showing symptoms like persistent coughing and receiving lung cancer diagnoses despite not having a smoking history. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing lung cancer effectively and enhancing patients’ quality of life.
Lung cancer is the most common cancer that occurs when cells in the lungs tend to divide uncontrollably, causing tumors. The rising cases of lung cancer is a growing matter of concern in the country as it is claiming millions of lives. India is likely to witness an over seven-fold rise in lung cancer cases by 2025 compared to the situation a decade ago, researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reported. Shockingly, lung cancer is not only surging in smokers but even nonsmokers.
Dr Samir Garde, Director of Dept of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel said, “20 years ago, the majority of lung cancer patients had a history of smoking. However, over the past 10 to 12 years, the scenario has changed as we are now encountering many individuals who have never smoked being diagnosed with lung cancer. It is a known fact that people who smoke will be at a higher risk of lung cancer. Earlier, out of 10 with lung cancer, 8 were smokers and 2 were non-smokers. Now, out of 10 with lung cancer, 5 are smokers and 5 are non-smokers. Hence, we are witnessing a concerning surge in lung cancer cases in non-smokers as well. This alarming increase in lung cancer among non-smokers can be attributed largely to both indoor and outdoor pollution. In metropolitan areas like Mumbai and Delhi, ongoing construction and infrastructure activities contribute to higher air pollution levels and lung cancer cases. Indoor air pollution is rising in the form of burning incent sticks, scented candles, and mosquito repellents which cause respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or obstructive airway disease. Lifestyle-related metabolic disorders such as diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle may indirectly contribute to an increase in lung cancer cases overall. Workplace pollutants from industries involving metal cutting or chemical exposure also pose risks for respiratory health and are linked to lung cancer in non-smokers.”
Dr Garde added, “Air pollution has triggered the incidence of lung cancer in nonsmokers. Especially women are more at risk of lung cancer due to indoor pollution (burning of chulhas). Fortunately, over the past 7-8 years, the central government has been supplying gas cylinders to households, reducing indoor pollution in rural areas that previously relied on chulhas and had high lung cancer rates. As a result, we are witnessing a decline in lung cancer cases among women attributed to the usage of gas cylinders. However, indoor and outdoor pollution in the cities and rural areas is perpetrating lung cancers.”
“Now, the age group for lung cancer has significantly changed,. Earlier, lung cancer was common in smokers who would smoke for 30-40 years and people would generally suffer from it in their 60s or 70s. Now, due to pollution, we are seeing males and females in their 30s and 40s getting diagnosed with lung cancer. A prevalent symptom prompting medical attention is a persistent cough lasting over three weeks. This cough warrants further examination since it could also indicate conditions such as tuberculosis (TB), cough-variant asthma, or lung cancer itself. If any abnormalities are detected in an X-ray, additional tests like CT scans or biopsies may be conducted to confirm lung cancer. Once diagnosed, treatment options may include oral chemotherapy or intravenous chemotherapy. Surgery might also be recommended if the diagnosis is made at an appropriate stage. For nonsmokers looking to prevent lung cancer, it is advisable to reduce indoor pollution by avoiding the burning of incense sticks, scented candles, camphor products, and mosquito repellents while opting for chemical-free alternatives,” underscored Dr Garde.
“Exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and even radon gas in homes are silent contributors to the surging cases of lung cancer in non-smokers aged 40-50. Out of 8 detected with lung cancer, 3 are non-smokers and 4 are smokers. Previously, out of 10 lung cancer patients, 9 were smokers and 1 was a non-smoker. Treatment for lung cancer will include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery which will be based on the stage and location of the tumor. As lung cancer rates among nonsmokers continue to rise, it is imperative to minimize indoor pollution by avoiding burning those incent sticks or using mosquito repellents, using a mask or not stepping out when air quality is poor outdoors, and quitting and taking safety measures (protective gear, mask, and gloves) while working in chemical factories. It is the need of the awareness to raise awareness about lung cancer in non-smokers to reduce the morbidity and mortality rates and enhance one’s quality of life,” concluded Dr Tirathram Kaushik consultant Oncosurgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road.
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