Experts Warn Air Pollution May Increase Risk of Prostate Cancer

**Islamabad:** Health experts have warned that **air pollution could be a contributing factor to prostate cancer**, particularly among men living in densely populated urban areas or near main highways.

According to media reports, studies show that exposure to high levels of air pollution increases the likelihood of developing prostate cancer. In the United Kingdom, air pollution is linked to the deaths of around **12,000 men annually** due to this disease.

The findings are based on research involving **220,000 men in the UK**, which revealed that individuals exposed to higher pollution levels had a **6.9% greater risk** of developing prostate cancer compared to those in less polluted areas.

Researchers identified **nitrate (NO₃)**, primarily emitted from vehicle exhaust containing nitrogen, as the most significant contributor. NO₃ is believed to promote the growth of cancer cells.

The study also examined the effects of **PM2.5 particles**, analyzing data from **224,000 men with an average age of 58**, tracked for an average of 13.7 years. About **5% of participants** were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and their residential postcodes were used to estimate their exposure to pollution.

Results indicated that while overall air pollution is linked to a modest increase in prostate cancer risk, **nitrates were identified as the most influential factor**.