Occupation and Bladder Cancer: A Study of Death Certificates
Author Information
Author(s): P.J. Dolin, P. Cook-Mozaffari
Primary Institution: Cancer Epidemiology Unit, Imperial Cancer Research Fund
Hypothesis
Is there a link between occupation and bladder cancer mortality in coastal areas of England and Wales?
Conclusion
The study found excess bladder cancer mortality among specific occupational groups, particularly those exposed to certain chemicals.
Supporting Evidence
- Excess mortality was found for deck and engine room crew of ships, railway workers, and electrical workers.
- Elevated risk was noted among food workers, particularly in the bread and flour confectionary industry.
- Use of a job-exposure matrix revealed elevated risk for occupations exposed to paints, benzene, and cutting oils.
Takeaway
Some jobs can make people more likely to get bladder cancer, especially if they work with harmful chemicals.
Methodology
The study analyzed death certificates of males aged 25-64 who died from bladder cancer in selected coastal regions from 1965 to 1980.
Potential Biases
Potential reporting bias may have occurred if registrars were aware of occupational links to bladder cancer.
Limitations
The study lacked information on smoking status and relied on death certificates for occupational data, which may not reflect lifetime exposure.
Participant Demographics
Males aged 25-64 who died from bladder cancer.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI provided for various occupations and exposures.
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