LUNG cancer remains one of the deadliest diseases worldwide, with changing risk factors influencing mortality rates. A recent study of data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 highlights evolving trends in lung cancer risk factors, particularly tobacco, air pollution, and asbestos exposure, in the world’s 10 most populous countries.
The study found a global 8% decrease in lung cancer mortality, but notable regional variations. For males, there was a decline in lung cancer mortality, but for females, the rates continued to rise. Tobacco-related deaths, although on the decline globally, have seen increases in China and Indonesia. Air pollution, particularly ambient particulate matter (PM), also emerged as a growing risk factor, with countries such as China, India, Pakistan, and Nigeria experiencing a rise in lung cancer deaths due to pollution. This shift in risk factors underlines the importance of continuous surveillance and policy interventions targeting air quality.
In addition, the study highlighted the decline in asbestos-associated lung cancer mortality globally by 32%. However, the rate in the United States remained significantly higher than the global average. The data showed that while household air pollution-linked lung cancer deaths have decreased by 62% globally, PM-related deaths increased by 25%. In China, the rate of particulate matter-related lung cancer deaths was particularly high, reaching 8.8 deaths per 100,000 people, which is double the global average.
The study also notes that while there has been a global reduction in tobacco-related deaths, air pollution now requires urgent attention. Ambient PM has become the most significant risk factor for lung cancer, demanding increased policy efforts to address its rising mortality toll. These findings underscore the necessity for healthcare professionals to advocate for preventative measures, such as improved air quality, reduced tobacco use, and heightened awareness about lung cancer risks.
Moving forward, expanding access to cancer prevention and treatment services is critical for reducing lung cancer mortality. Targeted policies aimed at controlling tobacco use and air pollution are essential for the future reduction of lung cancer burden globally.
Reference: Jani CT et al. Evolving trends in lung cancer risk factors in the ten most populous countries: an analysis of data from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study. eClinicalMedicine. 2025;79:103033.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
