A Review on Emerging Contaminants: Effects on Human Health and Cancer Risks

Emerging contaminants are growing health concerns that pose potential threats to the environment and human health globally. They originate from multiple sources, including rapid industrial processes, agriculture, households, and wastewater treatment plants. Despite efforts to reduce the levels of such pollutants, these harmful elements remain a serious problem for public health and the overall quality of life. Exposure to emerging contaminants can lead to various health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, brain and developmental disorders, and cancer. These contaminants can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and contaminate drinking water sources. Cancer, a complex heterogeneous disease, can be triggered by multiple causes, including genetic and environmental factors. The rapid increase in emerging contaminants has contributed significantly to the development and proliferation of cancer. This review highlights the dangerous effects of exposure to these contaminants and explores future directions in research. Additionally, it summarizes the emerging roles of inorganic contaminants, such as engineered nanoparticles, and biological contaminants, including pathogenic bacteria, antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes, viruses, protein contaminants, microplastics, and nanoplastics, in cancer progression and treatment.