Air pollution is causing over 1,100 new lung cancer cases each year in the UK, according to a new study. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) found that polluted air led to lung cancer in 515 men and 590 women in 2022. The most common type caused by pollution is adenocarcinoma.
The UK has higher rates of air pollution-linked lung cancer than the US and Canada. It is also four times higher than Finland, which has the cleanest air in northern Europe. Paula Chadwick, CEO of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, calls these findings alarming. “Without action to reduce pollution, more people will suffer,” she warns.
A Global Problem, A UK Concern
The IARC study found that air pollution caused 200,000 lung cancer cases worldwide in 2022. The UK’s rates are lower than China’s, which has the highest, but they are still a major concern.
Lucy Clark from Cancer Research UK says pollution must be addressed alongside smoking. “Cleaner air is essential for longer, healthier lives,” she says.
Dr. Helen Croker from the World Cancer Research Fund stresses the need for a strong government response. Sarah Sleet, CEO of Asthma + Lung UK, criticizes policies like a new Heathrow runway, saying it worsens air pollution. “These choices put more people at risk,” she warns.
Calls for Urgent Action
Adenocarcinoma now makes up 70% of lung cancer cases in non-smokers. This shows how environmental risks are increasing. Andrew Haines from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine calls for urgent action. “We need to tackle air pollution now,” he insists.
The UK government promises to update air quality policies. A spokesperson confirmed a review of the environmental improvement plan. However, Livi Elsmore from the Healthy Air Coalition says stronger action is needed. “We must clean our air to protect future generations,” she urges.