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Cancer incidence among Danish seafarers: a population based cohort study
L Kaerlev1, J Hansen, H L Hansen
1Research Unit of Maritime Medicine at University of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark. Lindak@FMM.SDU.DK
Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|October 20, 2005
Summary
Danish seafarers, particularly men, have a higher risk of developing cancer, especially lung cancer and other tobacco-related cancers. This study highlights occupational health risks for seafarers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Maritime Medicine
Background:
- Seafarers are exposed to various carcinogens, including benzene, engine exhaust, and asbestos.
- Specific risks exist for those on oil and chemical tankers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cancer morbidity among Danish seafarers.
- To analyze cancer risk in relation to ship type and job title.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 33,340 men and 11,291 women seafarers (1986-1999) was linked to the Danish Cancer Registry.
- Follow-up until 2002, with standardized incidence ratios (SIR) calculated.
Main Results:
- Overall cancer SIR was 1.26 for men and 1.07 for women.
- Increased risks observed for larynx, lung, mouth, esophagus, pancreas, kidney, bladder, colon, bone cancers, and skin melanomas in men.
- Lung cancer risk varied by job, with engine room crew and maintenance crew showing higher SIRs.
Conclusions:
- Danish seafarers, especially men, exhibit elevated overall cancer risk.
- Lung cancer and other tobacco-associated cancers are significant concerns for this population.