Air pollution may increase blood cancer cases in India: Experts

Air pollution in several cities often exceeds the set limit. Dr. Abhishek Raj, Senior Consultant & Head of Medical Oncology and Haematology at Sarvodaya Hospital, Faridabad, said that polluted air contains fine particles (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and carcinogens like benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These tiny toxins enter our body without any realisation, damaging DNA and weakening the immune system, and their effect is so dangerous that they develop as cancers.

Vehicle and factory emissions release benzene, and it causes deadly leukaemia. Recent research has unveiled that children living near polluted areas have a greater chance of developing leukaemia. Adults are being the victims of high levels of fine particles. Therefore, they are facing higher risks of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

Vehicles, industries, crop burning, and biomass fuels are spreading maximum air pollution in the country. Experts say that urgent action is the need of the time. It is essential to cut emissions and spread awareness, and further research is required to know how “toxic air” affects blood and bone marrow health.