Air pollution, radiation and cancer
Although air pollution and radon gas increase the risk of lung cancer, in the UK the risk is relatively small.
Many more lung cancer cases are caused by smoking than air pollution.
How can air pollution cause cancer?
Air pollution has been shown to increase the risk of lung cancer. Find out about the latest research into how air pollution can cause cancer.
Radon gas and cancer
Radon is a natural radioactive gas. When it builds up indoors to high levels, it increases the risk of lung cancer.
Can ionising radiation cause cancer?
Ionising radiation can cause cancer if a person is exposed to a lot of it. Some medical scans use small amounts of ionising radiation but the health risks are low.
