Study Reveals Link Between Increased Air Pollution and Higher Rates of Head and Neck Cancer

Published On 2024-11-14 03:00 GMT   |   Update On 2024-11-14 03:00 GMT
Advertisement
A recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports correlates higher levels of pollutant particulate matter to higher occurrences of head and neck aerodigestive cancer.
The article, "Air Pollution Exposure and Head and Neck Cancer Incidence," is the work of a multi-institutional collaboration with researchers from Wayne State University, Johns Hopkins University and Mass General Brigham.
“These findings shed light on the significant role of environmental pollution in cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract, highlighting the need for further awareness, research and mitigation efforts.” said senior author Stella Lee, M.D., of the Center for Surgery and Public Health and Division of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a founding member of the Mass General Brigham health care system
Advertisement
The researchers used data from the U.S. Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) national cancer database from the years 2002-12. They observed the highest association between this type of pollution exposure with head and neck cancer after a five-year lag period. They focused on PM2.5, which is particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns, and its effect on head and neck aerodigestive cancer incidence.
“We are looking at a certain size of air pollution particulates,” said Cramer, Ph.D., associate professor of otolaryngology. “The size of the particles is relevant because the classic model for studying the upper airways is that the nose and throat act as filters before they get into the lungs. Larger particles are being filtered out, but we are conceptualizing that different types of pollution hit different parts of the airways.”
Reference: Peleman, J., Ruan, M., Dey, T. et al. Air pollution exposure and head and neck cancer incidence. Sci Rep 14, 26998 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-73756-3
Full View
Tags:    
Article Source : Scientific Reports

Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.

NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.

Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Similar News