Environmental carcinogens and cancer Risk: Sustainable strategies for public health protection

Abstract

Environmental carcinogens, including air pollutants, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals, are increasingly generated due to the advancement in technology and contribute to the growing trend of cancer. Most of these comes from industrial activities, vehicle exhaust systems, and inadequate disposal of waste and poses danger to the general population. Carcinogens cause cancer by damaging DNA, inducing mutations, and disrupting key cellular processes like cell cycle regulation and apoptosis. They can also trigger, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and epigenetic modifications, further promoting tumor initiation and progression This letter to the editor focuses on carcinogens, their sources and the various cancers they caused and the possible ways to mitigate the risk and protect general public. Major recommendations include higher compliance with the existing legislation in the field of environment protection, the promotion of the usage of eco-friendly technologies by industries, the raising of awareness among populace and the necessity to protect green zones in cities and turn them into cleaner areas. In addition, there is a need to invest in state-of-the-art equipment for research and early diagnosis in order to decrease incidences of cancer occurrence, and safeguard population health.