Indoor air pollution is an often-overlooked health concern, especially when cooking smoke and fumes build up in poorly ventilated kitchens. prolonged exposure to certain indoor pollutants may also affect lung health, even among non-smokers While smoking is a well-known risk factor for lung cancer .
Overheated or smoking oil can produce additional fumes, while gas stoves can release pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide. “Cooking itself is not something people need to fear. The concern arises when smoke and fumes accumulate indoors regularly, particularly in kitchens with poor ventilation. When these pollutants are inhaled repeatedly over several years, they can affect respiratory health,” explains Dr Kadayaprath. She adds, “The problem can be more significant in homes where traditional fuels such as wood, charcoal, crop waste or cow dung are used for cooking. The smoke from these fuels contains fine particles that can travel deep into the lungs. Without adequate ventilation, these pollutants can remain trapped inside the kitchen and increase exposure.”
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Geeta Kadayaprath, surgical oncologist at Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, South Delhi, with 27 years of experience, explains how prolonged exposure to cooking fumes can affect lung health, who may be more vulnerable and what simple steps can help reduce the risk. (Also read: From delayed meals to sugary treats: Diabetologist shares everyday factors that can affect blood sugar level s ) Cooking can release fine particles and gases into the air, particularly when food is fried, grilled or cooked at very high temperatures.
prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution is a concern While occasional exposure to cooking fumes does not mean a person will develop lung cancer. “Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter and certain harmful chemicals in indoor air can damage the respiratory system.
Research has linked indoor air pollution and prolonged exposure to cooking smoke with an increased risk of lung cancer, including among people who have never smoked,” says Dr Kadayaprath.
