Cancer Risk Associated with Residential Proximity to Municipal Waste Incinerators: A Review of Epidemiological and Exposure Assessment Studies

Municipal Solid Waste Incinerators (MSWIs) are facilities designed to burn municipal solid waste to reduce its volume and mass and generate energy. A significant concern related to MSWIs is the emission of toxic and carcinogenic pollutants, including polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs), heavy metals, and particulate matter. This review synthesizes global epidemiological and exposure assessment studies investigating cancer risks associated with residential proximity to MSWIs. Findings reveal a complex relationship: older incinerators with high emissions correlate with elevated risks of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), soft-tissue sarcoma (STS), and liver cancer in some studies, particularly in Europe. However, results remain inconsistent due to methodological limitations such as exposure misclassification, latency periods, and confounding factors like socioeconomic status. Modern facilities equipped with advanced pollution control technologies demonstrate reduced risks, often within regulatory thresholds. Key challenges include accurately quantifying historical exposures and disentangling MSWI-specific risks from other environmental or lifestyle factors. While advancements in dispersion modeling and biomonitoring have improved risk assessments, geographical and temporal variations in findings underscore the need for continued research. The review concludes that while historical evidence suggests potential cancer risks near older MSWIs, stricter emissions regulations and technological improvements have mitigated health impacts, although vigilance through long-term monitoring remains essential to safeguard public health.