Causes of cancer and reducing your risk

Air pollution, radiation and cancer

Air pollution, radon gas and ionising radiation can increase the risk of cancer, but in the UK these risks are low. Learn about these risk factors and how they cause a small number of cancer cases.

How can air pollution cause cancer?

Air pollution has been shown to increase the risk of lung cancer. Find out about the latest research into how air pollution can cause cancer.

Scenic view of a coastal village built into a hillside.

Radon gas and cancer

Radon is a natural radioactive gas. When it builds up indoors to high levels, it increases the risk of lung cancer.

A technician comforting a patient by holding her hand after an MRI scan at a clinic.

Can ionising radiation cause cancer?

Ionising radiation can cause cancer if a person is exposed to a lot of it. Some medical scans use small amounts of ionising radiation but the health risks are low.

Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.