Does Your Air Contain Environmental Toxins that Can Potentially Increase Cancer Risk?

The disease does not Discriminate Between Rich & Poor.

You may have come across news highlighting how even wealthy individuals with access to excellent healthcare at their disposal can face health challenges like cancer. It’s worth asking:

Why do even those with access to the best food & healthcare have to face health challenges like cancer?

These real-life instances have prompted us to reconsider the realities of lifestyle choices & the environment in which we are surrounded. 

Now ask yourself why the news of someone suffering from cancer was not so common 5 or 6 decades ago. One possible explanation is that, at the time, the food they ate was clean and chemical-free, the air they breathed was toxin-free, & also they were also more physically active.

However, that's not all. Cancer is complex, with many contributing factors. One significant factor is environmental toxins. Regardless of how much wealth or status one has, we all inhale the same air (owing to nature's equal access), exposing us to similar environmental risks.

It’s important to note, however, that this is only a theory & not a definitive conclusion. Always consult or listen to healthcare professionals before reaching your own conclusions. In this article, we’ll discuss this topic in depth, exploring the vital question:

Is the Environment You’re Breathing in Putting You at Risk for Cancer?

What are Environmental Toxins? 

According to studies, environmental toxins are substances or organisms that can adversely affect human health. They may include:

• disease-causing organisms,
• physical elements that could interfere with biological processes, and
• toxic chemicals and chemical compounds. 

Exposure to environmental contaminants may be associated with an array of health effects. Some carcinogens & chemicals have been studied for their potential impact on the respiratory, endocrine, & cardiovascular (CVS) systems.

The following chemicals have been identified as known human carcinogens by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) in its 15th Report on Carcinogens. However, it is important to keep in mind that just because a material has been classified as a carcinogen does not guarantee that it will cause cancer. 

Examples of Environmental Carcinogens Identified in Research:

• Aflatoxins & Aristolochic Acids

• Arsenic & Asbestos

• Benzene & Benzidine

• Coke-Oven Emissions

• Crystalline Silica (respirable size)

• Erionite & Ethylene Oxide

• Formaldehyde & Hexavalent Chromium Compounds

• Indoor Emissions from the Household Combustion of Coal

• Mineral Oils: Untreated and Mildly Treated

• Nickel Compounds

• Radon, Beryllium, & Thorium

• Trichloroethylene

• Vinyl Chloride

• Wood Dust

• 1,3-Butadiene

• Cadmium

• Coal Tar & Coal-Tar Pitch

• Secondhand Tobacco Smoke (Environmental Tobacco Smoke)

• Soot & Strong Inorganic Acid Mists Containing Sulfuric Acid

Note: The substances listed are identified as potential carcinogens based on research. The risk of developing cancer depends on multiple factors, including exposure levels and individual genetics.

What is the Mechanism Behind Environmental Toxins Carrying Cancer Risk?

We all know that our bodies undergo alterations over time, & these changes are known as mutations. Some changes are good, and some turn out to be errors. The body has natural processes to repair these DNA errors, but sometimes these mechanisms are not fully effective, which may contribute to cancer risk. 

Majorly, these genetic changes are natural when DNA is replicated during cell division. However, it is worth noting that some of these changes may result from environmental exposures that can induce non-natural physiological alterations and damage DNA.

When your body is constantly exposed to these toxins over a long period, this may act as fuel to cancer risk.

Let's see how some of these carcinogens may put you at cancer risk:

1. Aflatoxins

• What are aflatoxins? They’re toxic substances produced by certain molds that grow on crops like peanuts, corn, and grains, especially in warm, humid places.

• How do they harm us? When you eat food contaminated with aflatoxins, your liver tries to break them down. However, during this breakdown process, they form a harmful chemical, AFB1-epoxide.

• What does this chemical do? AFB1-epoxide attaches itself to the DNA in your liver cells, causing damage. For an easy understanding, think of it as a bully messing up the preventive instructions of your DNA that keep your cells healthy.

• What’s the big deal? One important part of your DNA, called the P53 gene, is like the body’s "safety officer," which stops damaged cells from growing. Aflatoxins may damage this gene, which could contribute to the growth of abnormal cells.

• Who’s at risk? This primarily affects people in areas where food isn’t stored properly, increasing the risk of mold contamination.

So, How can you stay safe? 

You could save yourself by following these simple steps, which can reduce the chances of health issues:

1. Storing food properly to avoid mold growth.

2. Treating crops to prevent contamination.

3. Spreading awareness so people know the risks and how to prevent them.

2. Asbestos

• What is asbestos? It’s a group of minerals that are commonly used in construction materials & other products because they’re strong and resistant to heat.

• How can you get exposed? If materials containing asbestos are damaged or disturbed, tiny fibers are released into the air you breathe. When you inhale them, they can get trapped in your lungs &  stay there for a long time.

• What happens to your lungs? Over time, exposure to these toxic fibers may cause scarring & inflammation in the lungs, which has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

So, How can you stay safe?

Avoid disturbing materials that may contain asbestos and seek professional assistance with its removal.

Conclusion

Cancer is a complex disease influenced by a combo of genetic, lifestyle, & environmental factors. While some factors may contribute to risk, it is important to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

What can you do? Well, start with what’s in your control:

• Eat healthy. Some studies suggest that managing sugar & carb intake may support overall health.

• Be mindful of environmental toxins. If your workplace involves handling hazardous substances, ensure your employer provides all necessary safety measures to protect you. Speak up for your health—it’s your right. Know that health is the only wealth.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

References:

1. Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. (2021, February 1). Environmental toxins: Health impacts and the role of public health professionals. Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine https://publichealth.tulane.edu/blog/environmental-toxins/
2. National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Cancer-causing substances in the environment. National Institutes of Health. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances
3. Hamid, A. S., Tesfamariam, I. G., Zhang, Y., & Zhang, Z. G. (2013). Aflatoxin B1-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in developing countries: Geographical distribution, mechanism of action and prevention. Oncology Letters, 5(4), 1087–1092. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3629261/ 
4. National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Asbestos exposure and cancer risk (Asbestos fact sheet). National Institutes of Health.https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/asbestos/asbestos-fact-sheet