What are the key environmental risk factors for cancer?
Several environmental risk factors have been identified, including:
1. [Tobacco Smoke](): Smoking is the most significant environmental risk factor, responsible for about 30% of all cancer deaths. It is strongly linked to lung cancer but can also cause cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, and kidney. 2. [UV Radiation](): Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds can lead to skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. 3. [Asbestos](): This group of minerals, used in construction and other industries, can cause mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen. 4. [Chemical Exposures](): Chemicals like benzene (found in industrial emissions and cigarette smoke) and formaldehyde (used in building materials and household products) are known carcinogens. 5. [Air Pollution](): Long-term exposure to polluted air, especially particulate matter, has been linked to lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.
