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Silica and lung cancer: a controversial issue
J C Pairon1, P Brochard, M C Jaurand
1INSERM Unité 139, CHU H. Mondor, Créteil, France.
The European Respiratory Journal
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Crystalline silica exposure is linked to lung cancer, with animal studies showing carcinogenicity and human studies suggesting an association, though a definitive causal link in humans remains unclear. Further research is needed to fully understand the risks of silica exposure.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- The carcinogenic potential of crystalline silica has been debated.
- Experimental and epidemiological data are reviewed to assess this risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental and epidemiological evidence on crystalline silica and lung cancer.
- To evaluate the association between crystalline silica exposure and pulmonary malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vitro and in vivo experimental studies.
- Analysis of epidemiological studies, including those based on silicosis registers.
- Consideration of confounding factors like tobacco smoke and other occupational exposures.
Main Results:
- In vitro studies suggest genotoxic potential.
- In vivo studies demonstrate carcinogenicity in rats, with varying tumor types.
- Epidemiological studies often report excess lung cancer in occupationally exposed individuals, even without silicosis.
- Confounding factors complicate interpretation of human studies.
Conclusions:
- Experimental and human data suggest an association between crystalline silica exposure and increased lung cancer risk.
- A clear causal relationship in humans is not yet established.
- A link between pneumoconiosis and lung cancer is probable, supported by experimental data suggesting a plausible carcinogenic mechanism for crystalline silica.