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Colon cancer, physical activity, and occupational exposures. A case-control study
M Fredriksson1, N O Bengtsson, L Hardell
1Department of Occupational Medicine, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
Cancer
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Physically active jobs may lower colon cancer risk, particularly in the descending and sigmoid colon. However, exposure to asbestos, organic solvents, or trichloroethylene, especially for dry cleaners, may increase colon cancer risk.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Colon cancer is a significant global health concern.
- Occupational exposures and physical activity are potential modifiable risk factors for colon cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between occupational factors, physical activity, and colon cancer risk.
- To identify specific occupations and exposures linked to altered colon cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- Data on occupations and exposures were collected using questionnaires from 329 colon cancer cases and 658 controls.
Main Results:
- Physically active occupations were associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.49 for descending and sigmoid colon).
- Agricultural, forestry, and sawmill workers showed reduced risk, while railway employees had increased risk.
- High-grade exposure to asbestos or organic solvents doubled the risk; trichloroethylene exposure increased risk, particularly for dry cleaners (seven-fold increase).
Conclusions:
- Physical activity in occupations may be protective against certain types of colon cancer.
- Specific occupational exposures, including asbestos, organic solvents, and trichloroethylene, are associated with increased colon cancer risk.