Nasal cancer and occupation in Sweden, 1961-1979

Using national population-based registries which link cancer incidence (1961-1979) with 1960 census data on industry and occupation for all employed individuals in Sweden, a systematic assessment was made of nasal cancer (ICD 7th Rev. 160) with special reference to occurrence in manufacturing industries and craftsman-tradesman occupations. Data are presented for three histologic categories: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other histologic types. The highest risks (18-fold) were observed for adenocarcinoma among men employed in furniture making. Elevated risks were also observed for textile workers of both sexes. The findings are generally consistent with previous reports from other countries and help clarify the role of occupation in the origins of nasal cancer.