Research Links Air Pollution, Lung Cancer

WASHINGTON, D.C .-Scientists from Brigham Young University and New York University have found long-term exposure to air pollution may significantly increase a person's risk of developing lung cancer.

The risk may actually be as dangerous as being exposed frequently to second-hand cigarette smoke. The research followed 500,00 participants living in major U.S. cities. On average, those living in the most polluted cities had a 12 percent increased chance of dying of lung cancer in comparison to those living in other areas. This risk is reportedly near identical to the increased risk faced by non-smokers who breathe second-hand smoke.

The cities studied were not listed. The researchers did take into account cigarette use, diet, weight and occupation when evaluating participants.

Information from www.msnbc.com