New Delhi, Aug. 19 -- From cooking smoke in poorly ventilated kitchens to prolonged exposure to traffic-related air pollution, everyday pollutants can expose the lungs to harmful particles and chemicals. Doctors explain how repeated exposure damages lung tissue and raises the risk of cancer.

Lung cancer cases are rising rapidly in the country. While smoking is a major cause, it is not the only factor that harms the lungs. In India, millions face daily exposure to traffic fumes, industrial emissions, construction dust, and household smoke from solid fuels. These exposures can damage the lungs as severely as smoking.

Dr Mukul Thorat, Consultant - Pulmonologist & Intensivist, New Era Hospitals, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, and Dr Siddhesh Trymbake,...