Living in areas with high levels of particulate air pollution has been found to increase the incidence of breast cancer, according to a new study conducted by researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The study, which analyzed data from over 500,000 men and women enrolled in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, found that women living in areas with higher levels of particulate matter had an 8% increase in breast cancer incidence. The study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, is one of the largest to look at the link between outdoor air pollution and breast cancer incidence.
The research, conducted by scientists at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), focused on exposures to particulate matter 10-15 years prior to enrollment. Results showed that particulate matter was associated with a higher incidence of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, but not estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) tumors. However, the study was limited in its ability to explore differences in the relationship between air pollution and breast cancer across different study areas.
The study adds to the growing body of literature suggesting a relationship between air pollution and breast cancer. The researchers emphasize the importance of considering historic air pollution levels, as breast cancer may take many years to develop and past exposure levels may be particularly relevant.
Funding for the study was provided by the NIEHS and NCI Intramural Program. The NIEHS supports research to understand the effects of the environment on human health and is part of the NIH, the nation’s medical research agency. NIH includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases.
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