In what ways can high pollution levels contribute to increased cancer rates among women in urban areas like Jaipur?

Urban areas like Jaipur often face high levels of air, water, and soil pollution due to rapid industrialization, vehicular emissions, and poor waste management. Recent studies have shown a higher incidence of cancer among women living in such polluted environments. Several mechanisms and factors explain how pollution can contribute to increased cancer rates, especially among women:

• Exposure to Carcinogens: Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are known carcinogens. Long-term exposure increases the risk of mutations leading to cancer.
• Hormonal Disruption: Certain chemicals in pollution, like dioxins and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), can interfere with hormonal balance. This is particularly significant for women, increasing the risk of breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers.
• Increased Oxidative Stress: Pollutants generate free radicals in the body, causing oxidative stress. This damages DNA and cells, increasing the likelihood of cancerous growth, especially in tissues sensitive to hormonal changes.
• Compromised Immune System: Chronic exposure to pollutants weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to detect and destroy abnormal cells before they turn cancerous.
• Indoor Pollution: Women in urban areas may spend more time indoors, where pollution from cooking fuels, incense, and household chemicals can be high, further increasing cancer risk.
• Socio-economic Factors: Urban women, especially from lower-income groups, may have limited access to healthcare, regular screening, or information about pollution-related risks, leading to late diagnosis and higher cancer rates.
• Genetic Susceptibility: Some women may be genetically more susceptible to pollution-induced cancers, and urban pollution can act as a trigger in such cases.