Lyon study links air pollutants to increased breast cancer risk

The XENAIR study, conducted by the Centre Léon Bérard in Lyon, has identified a link between exposure to atmospheric pollutants and an increased risk of breast cancer. Based on data from over 10,000 women, researchers found that women with the highest exposure to multiple pollutants face a risk up to 60% higher than those with the lowest exposure.

Key pollutants identified in the study include nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), fine particles (PM10 and PM2.5), benzo(a)pyrene, and PCB153. The increased risk was particularly noted in women simultaneously exposed to high levels of these substances in dense urban environments, such as Lyon and Paris. Professor Béatrice Fervers noted that reducing concentrations of these pollutants could help decrease breast cancer risks, though researchers emphasized that pollution is not the sole cause of the disease.

Future research aims to investigate additional pollutants, including PFAS.