Early-Life Exposure to Air and Light Pollution Linked to Increased Risk of Pediatric Thyroid Cancer.

A recent study led by Yale University researchers has found a significant connection between early-life exposure to environmental pollutants—specifically fine particulate matter in the air (PM2.5) and outdoor artificial light at night (O-ALAN)—and an increased risk of developing papillary thyroid cancer in individuals under the age of 20. These exposures occurred during the perinatal period, which spans from conception to one year after birth.

The comprehensive research, conducted by experts from several Yale departments in collaboration with institutions such as the University of Southern California, UC Berkeley, and the American Cancer Society, represents the first large-scale investigation of its kind into pediatric thyroid cancer and environmental exposure.

Dr. Nicole Deziel, PhD, MHS, an environmental epidemiologist at the Yale School of Public Health and lead author of the study, highlighted the widespread nature of these environmental risks. “Urban air pollution, largely from vehicle emissions and industrial sources, and artificial nighttime lighting in densely populated areas are nearly unavoidable in modern environments,” she noted.

Using satellite and geospatial modeling techniques, the researchers assessed exposure levels based on the birth residences of study participants—all of whom were based in California. The study analyzed data from 736 individuals diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer before age 20, alongside 36,800 matched control participants by birth year.

The findings showed a 7% increase in thyroid cancer risk for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter rise in PM2.5 levels. Risk was most pronounced among adolescents aged 15–19 and Hispanic children. Additionally, children born in areas with the highest levels of artificial light at night faced a 23–25% higher likelihood of developing thyroid cancer.

“Despite the rising incidence of thyroid cancer among youth, very little is understood about its causes,” said Dr. Deziel, who also serves as co-director of the Yale Center for Perinatal, Pediatric, and Environmental Epidemiology. “Our results suggest that environmental exposures during a vulnerable window of development could be contributing factors.”

The implications for affected children are serious. Pediatric thyroid cancer tends to present at more advanced stages compared to adults, often involving larger tumors. Survivors may experience lasting health challenges, including physical limitations, hormonal imbalances, cognitive fatigue, and psychological effects such as anxiety and depression. These complications can disrupt educational paths, career opportunities, and family life.

Both PM2.5 and O-ALAN are recognized as environmental carcinogens. Fine particulate matter is capable of entering the bloodstream and interfering with hormonal signaling, while exposure to artificial light at night can disrupt melatonin production and circadian rhythms, impacting hormone-related cancer pathways.

The study also emphasizes issues of environmental justice. Communities of color and economically disadvantaged populations frequently face greater exposure to both air and light pollution, potentially contributing to the disproportionate cancer burden observed in Hispanic youth.

While more research is needed to confirm and expand these findings, Deziel underscored the importance of environmental considerations in pediatric cancer research. “Taking action to reduce air and light pollution could be a critical step in protecting children's health,” she said.

Source:https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250418112904.html

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.