Does air pollution have a carcinogenic effect on the ocular surface?

A new study published in Scientific Reports has explored the association between ambient air pollution and an individual’s risk of developing ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN).

The researchers highlighted that OSSN is the most common ocular malignancy. The condition is characterised by abnormal growth of dysplastic squamous epithelial cells on the ocular surface.

In order to explore the relationship between OSSN and ambient air pollution, researchers conducted a series of interviews with 43 people who had been diagnosed with OSSN and 63 healthy controls. All study participants lived in Tehran, Iran.

Study participants were asked about a range of demographic factors, including their history of eye diseases and tumours, lifestyle-related factors, and length of residence in their current location.

The researchers estimated each study participant’s long-term exposure to ambient air pollutants by calculating pollutant concentrations at their residential address over a five-year period.

They determined that higher fine particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and ozone concentrations were associated with an increased risk of developing OSSN.

The scientists highlighted that the findings indicate a possible carcinogenic effect of outdoor air pollution on the ocular surface.

“Given that the air pollution levels remain unsafe in Tehran, robust public health interventions to alleviate long-term eye health risks are necessary,” the researchers emphasised.