Lung Cancer in women: Why we continue to be concerned about PM2.5 (fine particulate matter of 2.5 microns or less in diameter) in central Pennsylvania.
PM2.5 is the most dangerous pollutant because it can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the blood system, causing cardiovascular, respiratory disease, cancer and increased risk of neurologic disorders and low birth weight pregnancies. Cancer of the lung is the most common cancer associated with PM2.5 exposure from diesel exhaust adding to the importance of central PA residents to continue to advocate for better air quality (1). Among women, deaths from lung cancer exceed those of breast cancer.
The number of deaths from lung cancer has been decreasing due to the reduction in cigarette smoking, however still remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women. Women who never smoked are more likely to develop lung cancer than their male counterparts (2). The American Cancer Society estimates for 2024 were over 100,000 new cases of lung cancers and over 50,000 lung cancer deaths in women (3). Genetic predisposition and exposure to second-hand smoke, radon and pollutants are considered to be reasons for increasing lung cancer in women (4).
- 1. https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/6674.00.pdf
- Gee K, Yendamuri S. Lung cancer in females—sex-based differences from males in epidemiology, biology, and outcomes: a narrative review. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2024;13(1):163-178
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
- Cheng, ES, et.al – Lung cancer risk in never-smokers: An overview of environmental and genetic factors. Chin J Cancer Res. 2021 Oct 31;33(5):548–562
Air Pollution Impacts from Warehousing
July 24, 2024, Nature Communications
People living in communities located next to large warehouses are exposed to 20% more of a traffic-related air pollutant that can lead to asthma and other life-threatening health conditions. A new study conducted by George Washington University researchers using satellite instruments is the first of its kind. The study is titled “Air pollution impacts from warehousing in the United States uncovered with satellite data.”
Wildfire Smoke Will Worsen, New Study Shows, and Protections Are Few
by Christopher Flavelle, Feb. 12, 2024, New York Times
Climate change is amplifying wildfires, and more smoke means higher risk of heart and lung disease from inhaling tiny particles that can drift far and wide, researchers said. Read more.
Air Pollution’s Invisible Toll on Your Health
By Jane E. Brody, June 28, 2021, New York Times
Children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with pre-existing heart or lung disease are the most vulnerable. Read more.

Dickinson College Clarke Forum: Air Pollution in Pennsylvania
Air pollution levels in some parts of Pennsylvania are among the nation’s highest. In addition to other health implications, new research links increased levels of air pollution to higher COVID-19 death rates. To orient these concerns, this panel will include a review of key air pollution sources across Pennsylvania. Community members will reflect on localized air pollution considerations and potential opportunities for engagement. To view the recorded presentation, go to: http://clarke.dickinson.edu/