Environmental pollution linked to increased childhood cancer risks

Prof. Dr. İbrahim Bayram, a specialist in pediatric hematology and oncology at Yeditepe University Koşuyolu Hospital, has highlighted the significant link between environmental pollution and childhood cancers. According to Ministry of Health data, childhood cancers account for approximately 1-2% of all cancer cases, with about 4,700 new diagnoses occurring annually.

Research indicates that factors such as air pollution, industrial waste, and pesticides are connected to increased risks of leukemia and lymphoma. Dr. Bayram noted that children are more vulnerable to chemical exposure than adults due to their rapid cellular growth. He emphasized that the prenatal period is particularly critical, as exposure to chemicals, radiation, or infections in the womb can disrupt development and lay the groundwork for cancer later in life.

Furthermore, studies conducted by Dr. Bayram's team found higher levels of pesticide residues in the bone marrow of children with leukemia compared to healthy children. He warned that even minute chemical residues in food can accumulate in the body over time, weakening the immune system and making it harder for immune cells to recognize cancer cells.