The Alarming Increase in Lung Cancer Deaths in this India’s Big City & What Role Air Pollution Plays
Lung cancer deaths have risen by nearly 49% in Mumbai between 2009 and 2021, with the highest number of cases recorded in 2018.
The rise in lung cancer deaths is attributed to long exposure to air pollution, tobacco consumption, and improved death certification procedures.
Dust and smoke from vehicles, roads, and construction activities contribute to over 71% of particulate matter load in Mumbai's air, leading to the deterioration of air quality.
Lowered wind speed across the west coast due to the La Nina effect further reduces the dispersal of pollutants, worsening the air quality.
Mumbai's air pollution levels are even higher than those in Delhi, with 'very poor' air quality reported on most days.
The IQAir report ranked Mumbai as the third most unhealthy city worldwide in terms of air quality.
The F-South ward reported the highest number of lung cancer deaths in Mumbai between 2016 and 2021.
Tobacco smokers are at higher risk of lung cancer, and 28% of the Indian population consume tobacco in any form, responsible for 27% of all cancers and 1.2 million deaths annually.
Implementing policies to reduce air pollution and tobacco consumption is necessary to combat the rising lung cancer deaths in Mumbai and mitigate long-term health effects on the public.
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