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Cancer risks in aluminum reduction plant workers: a review
Graham W Gibbs1, France Labrèche
1From the Safety Health Environment International Consultants Corporation (Dr Gibbs), Alberta; and L'Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail (Dr Labrèche), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Summary
Workers in the primary aluminum industry, particularly those in Söderberg operations, face increased risks for lung and bladder cancers. Exposure to coal tar pitch volatiles, like benzo(a)pyrene, correlates with these elevated cancer risks.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Epidemiology
- Industrial Hygiene
- Environmental Health
Background:
- The primary aluminum industry, especially Söderberg operations, has been associated with potential health risks for workers.
- Existing research primarily focuses on Söderberg or mixed Söderberg/prebake operations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epidemiological evidence on cancer risks in the primary aluminum industry.
- To analyze the relationship between occupational exposures and cancer incidence in Söderberg operations.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of epidemiological studies.
- Analysis of cancer incidence data in relation to occupational exposures.
- Adjustment for confounding factors such as smoking.
Main Results:
- Elevated lung and bladder cancer risks reported in Söderberg workers globally, though not universally.
- Cancer risks increase with cumulative exposure to benzo(a)pyrene (index for coal tar pitch volatiles), even after smoking adjustment.
- Limited evidence suggests increased risks for other cancers (stomach, pancreas, larynx, etc.), but associations are not clearly established.
Conclusions:
- Söderberg operations in the aluminum industry are linked to increased lung and bladder cancer risks.
- Exposure to coal tar pitch volatiles is a significant factor in these increased risks.
- Further research and worker follow-up are needed to clarify risks for other cancer sites.
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