Indoor Air Pollution Linked to Rising Lung Cancer Cases Among Sri Lankan Women
Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health has raised concerns over a growing number of lung cancer cases among women, warning that indoor air pollution caused by traditional cooking methods is emerging as a major public health issue.
Health officials say that while considerable attention is given to food safety and clean drinking water, the dangers posed by polluted air—particularly inside homes—remain largely underestimated.
Air Pollution Causes Thousands of Premature Deaths
Director of the Environmental Health and Occupational Health Unit, Dr. Chandani Vithana, said air pollution has become one of the leading environmental health threats both globally and in Sri Lanka.
According to Dr. Vithana:
- Between 7 and 8 million premature deaths occur worldwide each year due to air pollution.
- Around 7,000 premature deaths are reported annually in Sri Lanka from air pollution-related causes.
She explained that prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of several serious health conditions, including:
- Asthma
- Chronic respiratory diseases
- Chronic lung disease
- Lung cancer
- Heart disease
- Heart attacks
- Stroke
Indoor Air Pollution More Dangerous Than Outdoor Air
Health experts warned that indoor air pollution can be significantly more hazardous than outdoor pollution, with pollutant levels inside homes often reaching several times those found outdoors.
Dr. Vithana noted that many Sri Lankan households continue to use firewood stoves, particularly in kitchens with poor ventilation.
The burning of firewood releases harmful gases and microscopic particles that accumulate indoors and are inhaled by family members over extended periods.
These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, increasing the likelihood of long-term health complications.
Rising Lung Cancer Cases Among Women
According to the Health Ministry, lung cancer has historically been more common among male smokers.
However, health authorities have observed a noticeable rise in lung cancer cases among women, which experts believe is closely associated with long-term exposure to smoke from firewood cooking in poorly ventilated kitchens.
The trend highlights the growing impact of household air pollution on women’s health, particularly among those who spend long hours preparing meals.
Health Risks of Kerosene Stoves
Dr. Vithana also cautioned against the use of kerosene stoves, especially in enclosed spaces.
She explained that kerosene combustion releases hazardous pollutants, including aromatic hydrocarbons, which are recognised as carcinogenic substances capable of increasing the risk of cancer.
Public Advised to Improve Kitchen Ventilation
The Ministry of Health is urging households to take practical steps to reduce exposure to indoor air pollution by:
- Improving kitchen ventilation.
- Reducing exposure to smoke from firewood cooking.
- Avoiding the use of kerosene stoves in enclosed areas.
- Considering cleaner cooking technologies where possible.
Health officials stress that improving indoor air quality can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer, while contributing to healthier living conditions for families across Sri Lanka.
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