Tackling air pollution should be part of government work to cut cancer rates, scientists say

"Policymakers should aim to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) global air quality guidelines for outdoor air pollution without delay, while also reducing indoor air pollution and supporting climate goals. The key message is that this needs action at EU, national and local level."

"Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer but, across Europe, 28,000 cases a year can also be attributed to particle pollution. It is estimated that lung cancer deaths would be reduced by more than 10% by meeting WHO guidelines for air pollution."

"It is also important to make air quality information easily available, involve communities in local plans and protect vulnerable groups, for example around schools and care settings. Specifically, governments are urged not to locate schools and nursing homes next to busy roads."

The European Code Against Cancer now directs governments to prioritize air pollution reduction as a cancer prevention strategy. Air pollution causes approximately 28,000 lung cancer cases annually across Europe, with potential 10% reduction in lung cancer deaths through WHO guideline compliance. Evidence links air pollution to bladder, kidney, and brain cancers, affecting survival rates. Recommendations include phasing out solid fuels for heating, promoting clean energy systems like heat pumps and solar power, and improving air quality information accessibility. Governments should avoid locating schools and nursing homes near busy roads, installing indoor air filters where necessary. The code calls for ending combustion-based electricity generation and heating, including coal and biomass, while improving urban planning to reduce motorized traffic.

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