Reducing air pollution should become a key part of government strategies to lower cancer rates, according to the latest recommendations from the European Code Against Cancer. The updated guidance urges policymakers to take stronger action to limit both outdoor and indoor air pollution, warning that cleaner air could significantly reduce cancer cases across Europe.

The code, developed with support from the World Health Organization and European health experts, has traditionally focused on lifestyle choices individuals can make to reduce cancer risk. However, for the first time since its launch in 1987, it places greater responsibility on governments to implement policies that address environmental causes of cancer.

Air pollution is already recognised as a major health threat worldwide. While tobacco smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, particle pollution in the air is estimated to contribute to around 28,000 lung cancer cases every year across Europe. Health researchers estimate that meeting international air quality standards could reduce lung cancer deaths by more than 10 percent.

The recommendations emphasise the importance of meeting the global air quality guidelines set by the World Health Organization as quickly as possible. Achieving these standards would require coordinated action at multiple levels, including European Union institutions, national governments and local authorities.

Beyond lung cancer, growing scientific evidence links long-term exposure to polluted air with several other types of cancer. Studies suggest air pollution may also be associated with cancers affecting the bladder, kidneys and brain. Researchers have also found that exposure to polluted air may influence survival rates among people already diagnosed with cancer.

The updated code highlights the role of household pollution as a growing concern. In some parts of Europe, the use of wood-burning stoves and other solid fuels for home heating has increased in recent years. While often promoted as a traditional or low-cost energy source, burning wood, coal or other solid fuels can release fine particulate matter and toxic compounds that worsen indoor air quality.

To address this problem, the recommendations call on governments to discourage and gradually phase out the use of solid fuels for heating, cooking and recreational fires in homes. Instead, policymakers are encouraged to promote cleaner energy systems that reduce pollution inside and outside households.

Among the alternatives recommended are modern energy technologies such as heat pumps, solar power and geothermal energy systems. Expanding incentives for these technologies could help households shift away from polluting heating systems while also supporting broader climate goals.

Urban planning is another area identified as critical for reducing pollution-related health risks. The recommendations advise governments and city planners to consider air quality when designing communities and public infrastructure.

One of the specific measures highlighted is avoiding the placement of schools, childcare centres and nursing homes near busy roads with high levels of traffic emissions. Where relocation is not possible, installing indoor air filtration systems is recommended to reduce exposure for vulnerable populations.

Children and older adults are considered particularly at risk from air pollution because their respiratory and immune systems can be more sensitive to environmental pollutants. Protecting these groups is therefore seen as a key priority in reducing the long-term health burden associated with polluted air.

The recommendations also call for a broader shift in energy production. Governments across the European Union are urged to move away from combustion-based electricity generation and heating systems, including coal and biomass. Reducing reliance on these energy sources could lower emissions of harmful pollutants while also helping countries meet climate targets.

Transport systems are another major contributor to air pollution. The updated guidance suggests that cities should be redesigned to reduce dependence on motorised vehicles and instead promote cleaner and more active forms of mobility. Expanding public transport networks, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly spaces could significantly cut urban pollution levels.

While the new recommendations emphasise government responsibility, individuals are also encouraged to take steps to reduce both their exposure to polluted air and their contribution to the problem.

Practical measures include keeping homes free of smoke by avoiding the burning of materials such as coal or wood indoors. Choosing public transport, walking or cycling instead of driving can also help reduce emissions while improving personal health.

People are also advised to take lower-traffic routes when walking, cycling or exercising outdoors in order to limit exposure to vehicle exhaust. Supporting local initiatives and policies that aim to reduce air pollution is another way individuals can contribute to cleaner air in their communities.

The latest update to the European Code Against Cancer reflects growing scientific consensus that environmental factors play a major role in cancer risk. By combining policy action with public awareness and behavioural change, health experts believe cleaner air could become a powerful tool in preventing thousands of cancer cases in the future.