A recent study conducted by researchers from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the University of California, San Diego discovered a connection between air pollution and “increased genomic changes in lung cancer tumors among people who have never smoked.”
The scientists found “associations between air pollution exposure and changes in the TP53 gene, and other genetic mutational signatures previously associated with tobacco smoking.” They also found an association between fine particulate air pollution and early telomere shortening.
Furthermore, air pollution could cause more genetic mutations than secondhand smoke. The authors hope their study helps inform preventative care actions for patients who have never smoked. The study is published in Nature.
