A comprehensive examination of the impact of environmental pollution on lung cancer: A review
Hongyan Zhang, Hongyi Wei, Sijia Han, Lufeng Zheng, Xiaodong Chen, Ziwei Li, Lanbo Wang
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with environmental factors playing critical roles in its development and progression. Respirable and food-borne contaminants are major contributors to lung cancer onset, influencing various physiological pathways that lead to lung injury and tumor formation. AIM OF REVIEW: This review aims to examine the effects of common environmental pollutants on lung cancer development, highlighting the role of specific contaminants, such as PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 µm) and nitrogen oxides, and warning people to pay more attention to environmental pollutants. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW: Environmental pollutants play a significant role in increasing the susceptibility to lung cancer by triggering various biological mechanisms that lead to lung injury and tumorigenesis. Excessive PM2.5 exposure contributes to the overall burden of lung cancer via Wnt/β-catenin, Reactive oxygen species-DNA methyltransferases (ROS-DNMT), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signalling pathways. The primary mechanisms by which NO contributes to the occurrence and development of pulmonary neoplasm revolve around the production and regulation of ROS. Occupational exposure and ecosystem pollution to hazardous substances, including microplastics, pesticides, asbestos, cadmium, and nickel, are the well-established risk factors for the development of lung cancer via DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation pathways. This review emphasizes the importance of effective prevention strategies for lung cancer by reducing environmental pollution levels.