Experts called for urgent action to reduce air pollution, after evidence suggested that emissions from traffic and industries may be contributing to the emergence of this disease.
The study was based on data from 224,000 men in Britain, with an average age of 58, who were followed for 13.7 years. The results showed that those exposed to higher levels of pollution were 6.9% more likely to develop prostate cancer than those who were not exposed, with the risk increasing with higher levels of exposure.
Researchers believe that nitrates (NO₃), emitted from car exhaust, are the primary factor behind this effect. While the exact mechanism remains unclear, nitrogen, the main component of NO₃, is known to fuel the growth of cancer cells.
Most previous studies have focused on fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can be inhaled deep into the lungs and is emitted from sources such as car exhaust, industrial and agricultural emissions, and household fuel combustion. The new study, however, examined the impact of five of the main components of these particles, including NO₃, and found it to be the most influential factor in the risk of developing respiratory problems.
The researchers from Peking University in China wrote in the journal Urology: "Our results indicate that place of residence is important alongside genetic factors and lifestyle, and highlight the urgent need to target sources of nitrate emissions, especially traffic and agriculture, to reduce the spread of the disease."
