Living in High-Pollution Areas Increases Breast Cancer Risk, Study Suggests
Living in High-Pollution Areas Increases Breast Cancer Risk, Study ... WebMD
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New Research Links Air Pollution to Increased Risk of Breast Cancer
Introduction
Sept. 12, 2023 – A recent study has found a connection between living in areas with high levels of air pollution and an increased risk of breast cancer. The findings, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, reveal that women residing in highly polluted areas have an 8% higher chance of developing breast cancer compared to those living in areas with lower pollution levels.
Study Details
More than 500,000 individuals participated in this study during the mid-1990s. The participants were members of the American Association of Retired Persons (now called AARP) and resided in six different states (California, Florida, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania) as well as two metropolitan areas (Atlanta and Detroit). Follow-up questionnaires were completed in 2004 and 2005.
Research Findings
During the 20-year follow-up period, there were 15,780 cases of breast cancer among nearly 200,000 women with no prior history of the disease. The researchers analyzed the participants’ exposure to air pollution during the 10 to 15 years before their enrollment in the study, using national air quality data near their homes.
The study focused specifically on a type of air pollution called particulate matter, which consists of solid particles and liquid droplets present in the air. The researchers examined PM2.5 pollution, which refers to particles small enough to be deeply inhaled into the lungs. Sources of PM2.5 pollution include motor vehicle exhaust, coal or oil combustion, wood smoke, and industrial emissions.
The study also revealed a significant association between high levels of particulate matter pollution and hormone-positive breast cancer. However, the researchers were unable to determine the specific risk levels based on geographic location, suggesting that further investigation in this area is necessary.
Limitations
One limitation of this study is that the majority of women analyzed were older and post-menopausal. This may impact the generalizability of the findings to younger populations.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – This study highlights the importance of reducing air pollution to protect public health, specifically in relation to breast cancer.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Addressing air pollution is crucial for creating sustainable cities and communities that prioritize the well-being of their residents.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Reducing air pollution contributes to mitigating climate change and achieving global climate goals.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and communities is essential in developing effective strategies to combat air pollution and its associated health risks.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination | Indicator: Increased risk of breast cancer associated with high levels of air pollution |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management | Indicator: Association between air pollution and breast cancer incidence |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination
- Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, the article mentions an indicator that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Increased risk of breast cancer associated with high levels of air pollution
- Association between air pollution and breast cancer incidence
The article highlights that living amid high levels of air pollution is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. This indicates a connection to SDG 3, specifically Target 3.9, which aims to reduce deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air pollution. The specific indicator mentioned is the increased risk of breast cancer associated with high levels of air pollution.
The article also mentions that exposure to high levels of particulate matter pollution, a type of air pollution, is significantly linked to hormone-positive breast cancer. This connection relates to SDG 11, particularly Target 11.6, which focuses on reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality. The indicator implied here is the association between air pollution and breast cancer incidence.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: webmd.com
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