Principal Investigator: Dr. Kathleen Houlahan

Affiliation: McMaster University

Start Year: 2025

Our study investigates the impact of air pollution, specifically tiny particles known as PM2.5, on the development of various cancers. We have already examined this relationship in other countries, such as the UK and South Korea, but we have not had enough people with both detailed cancer information and genetic data to fully understand it. The CanPath study cohorts play a crucial role in this research because they provide diverse participant data that allow us to explore connections between air pollution, specific cancer types, and important factors such as age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and smoking status. We will use several statistical techniques to study the relationship between air pollution and cancer outcomes, including differences between males and females, while accounting for other relevant factors. We will also explore whether advances in artificial intelligence can help us better understand how conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may progress to cancer. In addition, we will compare our findings with data from other large population studies, such as the UK Biobank, to better understand the biological pathways linking air pollution to certain cancers. This study aligns with CanPath’s mission by addressing air pollution as a major public health concern and examining its potential impact on cancer risk. By analyzing participants’ medical histories, environmental exposures, and genetic data, we aim to identify factors that increase or decrease the risk of developing specific cancers related to air pollution. This research is important for developing effective strategies to prevent cancers linked to air pollution. Through CanPath, participants contribute invaluable information, and we are committed to keeping them informed about how their data are used. This summary provides a clear update for participants and highlights the importance of their role in advancing our understanding of the complex relationship between air pollution and cancer.