There are two main types of air pollution: ozone and particle pollution. Both are harmful to our health, and particle pollution, in particular, is associated with lung cancer. Particle pollution is a mix of solid and liquid particles, which are comprised of different chemicals and biological components. They come from burning wood, diesel and fossil fuels amongst other sources. They get into the lungs and the blood stream." particle pollution could cause lung cancer and classified particulate matter as a human carcinogen, or cancer-causing agent.
It appears from mouse studies that inhaling these particles changes our DNA. Particles may also play a role in chronic inflammation and the immune system. In addition to the association with lung cancer, we know pollution plays a role in heart disease, stroke, diabetes, mental health problems and other lung diseases. Both short-term and chronic, long-tem exposure to particle pollution is harmful.
Furthermore, people who already have lung cancer appear to be at increased risk for adverse health effects (including a shorter lifespan) when exposed to particle and ozone pollution.
On a day-to-day level, you can (and should) stay indoors when your local Air Quality Index level is high (over 100 on a 500-point scale for individuals who are sensitive to pollution, such as those with heart or lung disease). The higher the AQI, the greater the immediate health risks. You can find the current AQI for your region from the Environmental Protection Agency's AirNow website or your local weather forecast.
You can also see how your community ranks nationwide in terms of pollution. According to the SOTA, 1 in 4 Americans lives in areas where pollution levels are often dangerous.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/the-link-between-air-pollution-and-lung-cancer/ar-BBADxRa?li=AA5LBhu&ocid=spartanntp
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