New Delhi

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences Delhi is undertaking a major study to examine the connection between air pollution—especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5)—and the risk of Lung Cancer.

The research project, titled AIRCARE, is being led by Dr Abhishek Shankar, Assistant Professor in Radiation Oncology at AIIMS. Describing it as a first-of-its-kind initiative, he stressed the urgent need for scientific evidence to guide public health policies and improve disease management as air pollution becomes a growing concern.

Highlighting the gravity of the issue, Dr Shankar noted that India has some of the world’s most polluted cities, making it essential to closely examine the long-term health effects of pollution. He pointed out that lung cancer remains one of the most common cancers among men in the country, while cases among non-smoking women and younger individuals are also on the rise.

Although pollution is increasingly being linked to lung cancer, he said more India-specific data is required. He expressed concern that the disease, once largely associated with tobacco use, is now being detected more frequently among non-smokers.

The AIRCARE study will analyse 1,615 lung cancer patients along with an equal number of control subjects drawn from their family members across the Delhi-NCR region. It combines both clinical and non-clinical approaches to better understand the impact of prolonged exposure to PM2.5 across different population groups and socio-economic backgrounds.

A key component of the research involves identifying a distinct genetic signature among Indians exposed to high pollution levels. The aim is to determine whether early genetic changes triggered by pollution could eventually lead to lung cancer.

Using the findings, researchers plan to develop a risk-based screening model tailored to Indian conditions, incorporating both clinical and molecular data. The study will also help identify vulnerable groups who may be at a higher risk of developing the disease.

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Dr Shankar emphasised that lung cancer continues to be the second most common cancer among men in India and the fourth most common overall. He underlined the urgent need for effective policies and healthcare strategies to address the disease and reduce mortality.