Explanation
Among the options provided, the indoor pollutant that is known to cause lung cancer is:
C: Tobacco smoke.
Tobacco smoke contains numerous harmful substances, including carcinogens, that can cause lung cancer. Active smoking, where individuals directly inhale tobacco smoke, is a well-established cause of lung cancer. However, even exposure to secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoking or environmental tobacco smoke, can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Exposure to tobacco smoke damages the cells in the lungs and can lead to the development of cancerous cells over time. It is one of the leading causes of lung cancer globally and is responsible for a significant proportion of lung cancer cases.
While the other options mentioned (A: Paint, B: Carbon monoxide, D: Formaldehyde) can have health risks, they are not primarily known for causing lung cancer. Paint, for example, can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may have adverse health effects, but the direct link to lung cancer is not as established as with tobacco smoke.
It is important to note that avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, whether through active or passive smoking, is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of developing lung cancer.
