
On the morning of January 22, as emergency measures for high levels of fine dust were implemented, the skyline of central Seoul appeared hazy and obscured. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 24 (Korea Bizwire) — Prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) may elevate the risk of developing urological cancers, including kidney and prostate cancer, among South Koreans, according to a recent study published in the American Association for Cancer Research Journal.
The research, conducted by a team led by Professor Park Yong-hyun from the Catholic University of Korea Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital and Professors Noh Mi-jung and Park Ji-hwan from Dankook University, analyzed data from South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service database and Air Korea’s air quality records.
The study found a correlation between regional air pollution levels and the incidence of urological cancers.
Using data from over 50,000 newly diagnosed urological cancer patients, the researchers compared cancer risk between groups exposed to fine dust concentrations above and below 56 micrograms per cubic meter.
Patients exposed to higher levels of air pollution demonstrated a significantly increased risk of developing cancer, particularly kidney and prostate cancer.
These findings remained consistent even after adjusting for factors such as age, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, and hypertension.

Fine particulate matter induces systemic chronic inflammation, resulting in diminished brain function. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
While fine particulate matter is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, previous studies on its link to urological cancers in regions like Europe and China have produced mixed results.
This study highlights the importance of long-term public health data in understanding the environmental impact on South Korean populations, noted Professor Park Ji-hwan.
Professor Park Yong-hyun emphasized the protective role of regular physical activity, stating that individuals who engaged in consistent exercise, even indoors on days with high air pollution, showed no increased cancer risk related to fine dust exposure.
He advised the public to maintain regular exercise routines, even during periods of severe air pollution, to mitigate health risks.
This research underscores the growing need for policy measures to combat air pollution and protect public health, as fine dust continues to be a significant environmental hazard in South Korea.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)