Toxic air pollution has become one of the biggest environmental causes of lung cancer today. Harmful particles like PM2.5, smoke, industrial chemicals, and vehicle emissions enter the lungs and damage tissues over time. This increases cancer risk even in people who don’t smoke.
Here are 8 symptoms you must never ignore:
1. Persistent Cough That Doesn’t Go Away
A cough lasting more than 3–4 weeks can signal lung irritation or tumour growth.
2. Blood in Cough (Hemoptysis)
Even a small amount of blood mixed with sputum is a red flag.
3. Constant Chest Pain
Pain in the chest, shoulder, or back that worsens with deep breathing or coughing.
4. Shortness of Breath
Polluted air reduces lung capacity, but if breathlessness becomes frequent, it needs evaluation.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss
Sudden, unintentional weight loss is often an early cancer sign.
6. Persistent Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time despite adequate sleep can indicate underlying disease.
7. Frequent Respiratory Infections
Repeated bronchitis, pneumonia, or lung infections due to weak lung immunity.
8. Voice Changes or Hoarseness
If your voice stays hoarse for more than 2 weeks, it could be due to pressure on the vocal nerves.
