There are several causes of cancer ranging from genetic, environmental to constitutional factors. One of the ways a person can develop cancer is through the exposure to carcinogens. A carcinogen is a substance capable of causing cancer. It is either present in the environment or may be generated by humans in the form of fumes and cigarette smoke. This type of cancer development can occur at certain work-places, also called occupational cancer. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Bhavna Mehta, Senior Consultant and HOD-Histoanatomic pathology department, Neuberg Supratech Reference Laboratory, discusses what occupational cancer is and how it can be controlled.
Also Read: World Kidney Cancer Day: Understanding Kidney Cancer, Its Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment Options
What Is Occupational Cancer?
“Occupational cancers are a serious concern for workers around the world,” said Dr Mehta, adding that these cancers occur due to exposure to carcinogens in the workplace, which are substances that can cause cancer. “Industries such as construction, mining, and manufacturing along with radio diagnosis and radiotherapy centres are particularly at risk, but exposure to carcinogens can occur in any workplace,” she added.
According to a 2007 World Health Organization (WHO) press release, every year, at least two lakh people die from occupational cancer - cancer related to their workplace. "Millions of workers run the risk of developing cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma (a malignant cancer of the internal lining of the chest cavity) from inhaling asbestos fibres and from tobacco smoke, or leukaemia from exposure to benzene at their workplaces. Yet, the risks for occupational cancer are preventable," the WHO statement read.
Common Occupational Carcinogens
Dr Mehta lists some of the common occupational carcinogens including asbestos, benzene, chromium, radon, formaldehyde, and silica dust. “The risk of developing occupational cancer is directly related to the level and duration of exposure to the carcinogen and other factors such as age, smoking, and genetic predisposition,” she added.
Most Common Types Of Occupational Cancers
The most common types of occupational cancers include lung cancer, mesothelioma, and bladder cancer, often caused by exposure to asbestos. Other types of occupational cancers include leukaemia, lymphoma, and liver cancer, which can be caused by exposure to benzene and formaldehyde.
According to the WHO press release, every tenth lung cancer death is closely related to risks in the workplace, adding further that currently, about 12.5 crore people around the world are exposed to asbestos at work, and at least ninety thousand people die each year from asbestos-related diseases. In addition, thousands more die from leukaemia caused by exposure to benzene including in the chemical and diamond industries.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
Measures To Control And Reduce The Risk Of Occupational Cancer
Dr Mehta shares that preventing occupational cancers is a top priority for employers and regulatory agencies. “Many countries have established laws and regulations to limit exposure to known carcinogens. Employers are responsible for identifying and assessing the risks associated with exposure to carcinogens in the workplace,” she said, noting some of the measures that can be taken to reduce the risk:
- Use of personal protective equipment
- Substitution of less harmful substances for known carcinogens
- Implementation of engineering controls such as ventilation systems
Occupational cancers are a serious and preventable health risk for workers in many industries, according to the doctor. “Employers and regulatory agencies must work together to identify and control the risks associated with exposure to carcinogens in the workplace. By implementing measures to prevent and control direction, we can reduce the incidence of occupational cancers and protect the health and safety of workers,” she said. That said, early detection and timely treatment are of utmost importance, especially in managing occupational cancers and improving quality of life.