Labor Costs in Floriculture: The Link Between Pesticide Use and Occupational Cancer Risk

This article examines the financial impact of occupational cancer resulting from pesticide exposure and other carcinogenic agents in the floriculture sector of Cundinamarca, Colombia. It begins with a literature review covering (the) industry context, key occupational health factors, labor costs, and human capital. Based on this review, the study identifies gaps in the economic analysis of work-related illnesses such as cancer, particularly regarding hidden costs.  Method: Using a quantitative explanatory approach, the research applies a multiple linear regression model to a dataset of 7,300 observations, analyzing absenteeism, labor costs, and worked days in relation to productivity.

The findings show a (59%) drop in productivity per diagnosed worker, leading to increased costs. The model yields an R² of (0.876), statistically supporting the hypothesis.

The study confirms the existence of hidden costs such as absenteeism, employee replacement, and medical expenses that are not reflected in financial statements.