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A cohort study among workers at a metal components manufacturing facility
1Monsanto Company, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, St Louis, MO 63167.
Journal of Occupational Medicine. : Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association
|August 1, 1991
Summary
This study found elevated lung cancer mortality among metal component factory workers, particularly hourly employees. Researchers also noted increased nonmalignant respiratory disease rates in this group.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Previous proportional mortality study indicated elevated lung cancer and nonmalignant respiratory disease risks.
- Metal component manufacturing facilities may pose specific occupational health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mortality patterns in employees of a metal components manufacturing facility.
- To follow-up on prior findings of elevated lung cancer and respiratory disease risks.
Main Methods:
- A cohort mortality study was conducted from 1950 to 1987, involving 4627 employees.
- Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated for various causes of death.
- Indirect methods were used to estimate potential smoking confounding effects.
Main Results:
- Overall mortality and cancer mortality were lower than expected.
- Significantly elevated lung cancer mortality was observed (SMR=131), driven by hourly workers (SMR=153).
- Hourly workers also showed increased risk for other nonmalignant respiratory diseases (SMR=170) and a deficit in leukemia (SMR=16).
Conclusions:
- The metal components manufacturing facility is associated with increased lung cancer and respiratory disease risks, particularly for hourly workers.
- Further investigation into workplace exposures and smoking habits is warranted.
- The study highlights the importance of targeted occupational health surveillance.